A new jetpack called Jetson ONE has successfully completed its first flight in the United States. The Italy-based company behind the product has stated that it plans to start delivering the jetpack to customers by 2024. With $15 million raised from investors, including musician will.i.am, the company has already received 300 pre-orders for the Jetson ONE, which will be priced at $98,000.
The Jetson ONE can reach a top flying speed of 63 miles per hour and can fly at an altitude of 1,500 feet. It is powered by eight electric motors, each with its own battery pack, which are connected to eight propellers. This configuration allows for approximately 20 minutes of flying time before the jetpack needs to be recharged.
One notable feature of the Jetson ONE is its weight, as it weighs less than 200 pounds. This classification as an “ultralight” aircraft exempts it from the stringent regulations imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration on other flying cars. As a result, customers can operate the Jetson ONE without needing a license, certification, or testing.
According to CEO Stéphan D’haene, learning to fly the Jetson ONE only takes around five hours. After this short training period, pilots can control the jetpack using intuitive joystick controls while the flight computer handles the more complex tasks. Additionally, the product includes a “ballistic parachute” as a safety measure in case of emergencies.
D’haene expressed the company’s mission to democratize flight and make aviation accessible to everyone. The Jetson ONE aims to provide a thrilling experience without the burdensome requirements imposed on traditional pilots.
