CycloTech Tests Innovative Aircraft with Unique Propulsion System

The Austrian startup CycloTech has successfully conducted the inaugural flight of its innovative aircraft, the BlackBird. This aircraft stands out due to its distinctive propulsion system.

The BlackBird is an eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) demonstrator, powered by electricity and designed as a multicopter that can take off and land vertically. Unlike traditional aircraft, CycloTech has equipped it with six proprietary CycloRotors, a technology developed in-house.

Each CycloRotor consists of two discs with five wings suspended between them. This cylindrical structure rotates around a central axis, allowing the wings, shaped like airplane wings, to tilt. This tilting mechanism enables the aircraft to control airflow, thus allowing the BlackBird to ascend, descend, fly forward and backward, or hover in place.

Four of the six CycloRotors are oriented perpendicular to the flight direction, providing thrust, while the remaining two are aligned with the aircraft's longitudinal axis, enhancing maneuverability. This design enables the BlackBird to rotate around its vertical axis and move sideways with agility.

The BlackBird, weighing 340 kilograms, is an unmanned aircraft, and its first flight took place on March 27, as confirmed by CycloTech. The design and construction of this aircraft were completed in an impressive timeframe of just eleven months.

According to CycloTech's technology chief, the BlackBird serves not only as a demonstrator but also as a flying testbed for the future of aviation. The rapid progression from concept to flight underscores the innovative capabilities and dedication of the CycloTech team.

Looking ahead, CycloTech plans to develop two variants of the aircraft. The CruiseUp model aims to become a flying car, capable of transporting two passengers over distances of up to 100 kilometers. The CCY-01 variant is designed as a transport drone, intended to carry a payload of 45 kilograms over a range of 40 kilometers.