The demonstration at the EAA AirVenture show caught the attention of the audience as the Wisk Aero cockpit performed a series of maneuvers in the air. This fifth-generation prototype, although different from the final version that will be released later, has proven its maneuverability and performance.

Aerotaxi possibilities

The fifth-generation cabin was the center of attention at the EAA AirVenture event, demonstrating its flight capabilities to visitors.

During the Wisk Aero cockpit demonstration, Cora performed a number of impressive maneuvers. These included vertical ascents and descents, steady turns, and smooth transitions between horizontal and vertical directions. It is worth noting that these maneuvers will be further developed with the sixth generation prototype equipped with front rotating propellers driven by electric motors.

In contrast, the fifth-generation prototype presented at the event had propellers rigidly attached to the aircraft structure. As a result, the demonstration provided limited information about the aircraft’s aerodynamic responses during engine orientation changes. Despite this limitation, the prototype demonstrated exciting flights and maneuvers, hinting at the promise of the future.

Wisk Aero Cora aerobatic show: watch video

The company has gone through many changes

The path to this show was marked by notable changes in ownership. Boeing became sole owner of the former Wisk Aero joint venture after it shut down Kittyhawk, a company once co-owned by Larry Page. The company is now continuing to build a prototype of the sixth-generation air cabin, while also testing the fifth-generation model.

The sixth-generation prototype, meanwhile, was carefully designed to undergo a rigorous certification process. Compliance with design and safety standards prescribed by the FAA is required. At the same time, the prototype is awaiting production certification, an important step towards enabling large-scale production of the electric aircraft.

Sixth generation cabin prototype / Photo: Wisk Aero

After receiving the air carrier certificate, the air cabin, which started a new era in urban transportation, will be ready to start commercial operation.

As Wisk Aero continues its commercial operations journey, aviation enthusiasts and industry stakeholders continue to be fascinated by its progress. A recent demonstration serves as a tantalizing preview of the advances this electric VTOL drone can bring to urban mobility. The trajectory of the evolution of the air cabin is expected to be watched closely in the coming months.