Christchurch-based Martin Aircraft Company has revealed details of its latest jetpack prototype.
The new P12 prototype was a “huge step up” from the previous prototype, the company have changed the position of the Jetpack’s ducts and has resulted in a huge leap in performance over the previous prototype. The company also secured full certification from the Civil Aviation Authority for manned flight and have made great progress in recent months in increasing the flight time of the aircraft.
The jetpack’s airframe has been developed using the latest composite technologies. The use of composite materials is essential to meet the unique demands of the pack. The composites structures, designed and developed in conjunction with Dynamic Composites, account for less than 30% of dry machine weight.
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The company’s main focus is on further improving the performance of the jetpack through some engine refinements in order to ready the jetpack for commercial sale. The company has appointed James West to take on the role of Chief Finance Officer on a temporary basis with a particular emphasis on assisting the company prepare for the launch of an IPO in the near future. Mr West was formerly CFO at Pyne Gould Corporation.
Martin Aircraft Company’s CEO, Peter Coker said;
The jetpack continues to attract interest from potential customers and investors worldwide, we are focussing initially on developing the jetpack for use as a first responder vehicle and heavy lift unmanned air vehicle.
The company is also developing a jetpack simulator that will be available for sale in the next few months.