Palo Alto, California-based Pivotal, which is backed by Larry Page, launched online sales of Helix at CES 2024 on Monday night. The Helix marks a significant development for Pivotal, which formerly known as Opener has been developing lightweight electric vertical takeoff aircraft for more than a decade.
The company initially came to attention with the BlackFly, a personal single-seat aircraft using a tilt-a-plane architecture that was delivered to its first customer in June 2023. The Helix, unveiled in October this year, reflects the maturity of the company's technology and is the first aircraft designed for mass production.
The Helix is only available in the United States, with deliveries starting on June 10, 2024. Potential U.S. buyers only need training time and at least $190,000 (before taxes). "The market is ready for the wonders of aerial entertainment and short-distance electronic aircraft travel," said Pivotal CEO Ken Karklin.
Judging from the initial reaction, the market seems ready. Kristina Menton, chief operating officer of Pivotal, revealed that within the first hour of online sales, potential customers had already started pre-ordering.
The single-seat aircraft does not require Federal Aviation Administration pilot certification. Weighing approximately 348 pounds, the Helix is lightweight and meets FAA Part 103 (ultralight) regulations. But that doesn't mean there aren't some regulations. The FAA stipulates that ultralight aircraft can only fly in non-congested areas and away from airports. Pivotal requires all purchasers to undergo training. There are some other requirements for buyers: They must be 18 years or older, weigh no more than 220 pounds, and stand no taller than 6 feet, 5 inches.
Additionally, there are some limitations. The Helix has a range of more than 20 miles and takes about 75 minutes to charge from 20% to 100% battery using a 240V charger.
All three configurations of Helix include necessary training. The $190,000 base package includes the Helix aircraft, white carbon fiber exterior trim, digital flight panels, canopy, HD landing camera, charger, vehicle cart, custom signage and warranty.
The second package, starting at $240,000, offers a gloss white and striped carbon fiber exterior and includes the features listed above, plus a trailer, 4k camera with landing assist, recording and sharing, ADS-B air traffic system, two chargers and an enhanced warranty. By the way, the trailer is a convenient tool for users to push Helix around. Pivotal says the Helix can be assembled in 30 minutes. Once disassembled, it can fit into a 16-foot trailer.
The third package, priced at $260,000, offers a bright white and carbon fiber exterior with custom accent colors and includes the aforementioned materials, as well as a premium flight deck, three chargers, beacon aircraft lighting, integrated emergency locator transmitter, an additional training slot for friends or family, and the option to fully customize the look depending on the design for an additional fee.
The Helix aircraft will be produced in Palo Alto. Customers can order Helix online but are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of $250. However, according to the company, in order to ensure the production schedule and estimated shipping date, customers need to pay a deposit of US$50,000 within five working days after placing the first order.