Space agency to develop 5-seat hybrid VTOL aircraft
SEOUL, Aug. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's space agency said Tuesday it will push ...
In a significant move for South Korea's aerospace sector, the country's space agency, KASA, announced plans to develop a five-seat hybrid vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The agency aims to localize critical components for the aircraft and intends to construct four prototypes by 2032.
The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) held a public hearing to solicit feedback from various stakeholders, including industry professionals, academics, and research institutions. The hearing aimed to gather perspectives on the aircraft's development and identify additional needs from the public sector.
The envisioned aircraft is designed to accommodate five passengers, with a target range exceeding 200 kilometers. It would also have a payload capacity of at least 600 kilograms and a flight duration of over 60 minutes. Unlike some VTOL aircraft that rely solely on batteries, this hybrid model will incorporate an engine, enabling it to carry heavier loads and travel longer distances.
KASA plans to present the project to the Ministry of Science and ICT in November for evaluation as a state-funded research and development initiative.
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