The Gallery: RECON electric VTOL craft takes to the sky

Ryse Aero Technologies’ testing of flight-control systems saw the RECON complete a seamless take-off, controlled hover, forward flight, pivot turn manoeuvres and a smooth landing. Erik Stephansen, the company’s director of regulatory affairs and pilot for the test, described the RECON as “effortless and very enjoyable” to fly. “I was thrilled at how I could literally hover, take my hands off the controls and the RECON sat there stable and safe,” he says.

With the RECON distinguishing itself from similar aircraft by not requiring a pilot’s licence to operate, the inaugural flight marked a significant milestone in the company’s goal of expanding aerial mobility to people living in rural areas and on large private lands. Ryse says the plane is as easy to operate as an ATV (all-terrain vehicle).

Each of the six independent propulsion systems has its own removable and rechargeable battery, and production models will have a range of up to 25 miles, top speed of 63 miles per hour, and the ability to operate on both land and water. Delivery to initial customers is expected to begin in early-to-mid 2023.

You can fly the Ryse RECON without a pilot’s licence (in the US, anyway)

Test flights included take-off, hovering and a range of manoeuvres

Each of the six independent propulsion systems has its own battery

Top speed is over 60 miles per hour, with a range of up to 25 miles