US start-up manufacturer Terrafugia flew the first production prototype of its Transition "flying car" on 23 March from its base in Plattsburgh, New York.
The two-seat light sport aircraft - designed as a street legal aircraft that can be driven safely on the highway - successfully conducted initial drive and conversion testing. During the eight-minute flight the aircraft reached an altitude of 1,400ft (430m), says Terrafugia. The proof-of-concept Transition took to the skies in 2009 and completed 28 flights.
The privately-funded company says it has 100 "commitments" for the $279,000 Transition, which is scheduled to enter service next year.
Source: Flight International
