Empirical Systems Aerospace has delivered the first of three “all-electric” experimental aircraft modifications to NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
The X-57 Maxwell plane’s Mod II variant will undergo a series of ground, taxi and flight tests under project aimed at advancing the design and airworthiness of a distributed electric propulsion technology for potential general aviation use, NASA said Friday.
ESAero, the project’s prime contractor, integrated electric cruise motors into the Mod II aircraft, which also serves as the agency’s first crewed X-plane in 20 years. The San Luis Obispo, Calif.-based company will incorporate a high-aspect ratio wing on the Mods III and IV variants.
NASA added it will discuss the design and airworthiness process for the aircraft’s propulsion system with industry partners and regulatory agencies in an effort to advance certification approaches.
