UK aviation innovators secure CAA accreditation for sustainable air transport solution

A British firm aiming to revolutionise rural transportation through electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology has achieved a significant milestone.

ARC Aero Systems, based in the UK, has secured E Conditions certification from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for its innovative air transport solution.

The certification paves the way for ARC to commence test flights of its modified design of the Avian Pegasus, a tried and tested jump take-off gyroplane originally developed in the 1960s.

This marks a crucial step forward for the company as it prepares to enter a market projected to grow from its current value of around $9 billion to $45 billion by 2030.

ARC's founder and CEO, Dr Seyed Mosheni, said: "We are delighted to have secured CAA E Conditions certification for our hybrid version of Pegasus, which enables us to conduct test flights and ultimately bring our innovative air transport solution to market.

"There is a huge and increasing demand, reflected in market growth forecasts, for an affordable, sustainable, runway-independent aircraft connecting remote rural areas for passengers and cargo.

"Through our adapted design of the Avian Pegasus, we are developing an aircraft that is already certified by global aviation authority rules and has existing pilot training programme syllabuses."

ARC's adapted aircraft offers a unique approach, focusing on accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.

Pegasus' self-charging hybrid-electric engine requires no e-charging facilities and can run on a range of available fuels, including hydrogen, enhancing its green credentials.

Additionally, the aircraft's ability to land and take-off from small areas of level ground makes it much more accessible to remote communities.

The company is currently engaged in an investment round, aiming to secure £1.5 million through crowdfunding and contributions from private investors.

The funds will support further commercialisation of its adapted model of Pegasus, which ARC plans to bring to the market in 2026.

To date, the firm has raised approximately £9 million from established investors, including the British Business Bank, and through grants from organisations like the Low Carbon Innovation Fund and Innovate UK, which has contributed £2 million in funding.

Ahead of its market launch, ARC has secured the sale of 15 Pegasus aircraft, including 10 purchased by Norwich-based charity SkyAngels Air Ambulance and five commissioned by a Scottish-based pilot training school and an aerial service operator.

Furthermore, ARC is developing its larger nine-seat Linx P9 compound rotorcraft, which it aims to bring to market in 2029.

This eVTOL aircraft will incorporate the jump take-off technology of the Pegasus, as well as a hybrid propulsion system and advanced flight controls.