Jetson One eVTOL Demonstrates Resilience in Mountain Rescue Operations

The aviation company Jetson has successfully tested its single-seat eVTOL, the Jetson One, for use in mountain rescue missions. Conducted in Poland, the tests demonstrated the aircraft's capability to withstand strong crosswinds of up to 58 km/h.

In mountain rescue scenarios, time is of the essence. First responders must reach the scene of an accident as quickly as possible to assist injured individuals. Traditional rescue teams often rely on foot, off-road vehicles, or helicopters. However, ground teams may be delayed, and helicopters face limitations in landing due to space constraints, not to mention their high maintenance costs. The Polish mountain rescue team, Górskie Ochotnicze Pogotowie Ratunkowe (GOPR), has identified the Jetson One as a potential solution for faster rescue operations.

The Jetson One covers approximately 700 square kilometers of remote terrain, making it a valuable asset in emergency situations.

To validate its efficacy, GOPR invited Jetson's team for a series of tests. Two standard Jetson One units were employed, each weighing just 115 kg and featuring four pairs of rotors powered by stacked electric motors. The compact dimensions of the eVTOL--2.7 m x 1.6 m x 1.1 m--allow for quick deployment, enabling it to be operational in mere seconds. Although the Jetson One can carry a pilot weighing up to 95 kg, it is not designed to transport injured individuals. The aircraft has a flight duration of approximately 30 minutes and is electronically limited to a maximum speed of 102 km/h.

The tests assessed the Jetson One's response time and overall suitability for rescue operations, with various representatives from rescue organizations evaluating its performance. This collaborative approach ensured that multiple perspectives were considered in the assessment. The aircraft successfully reached several mountain locations, including Mount Luban, which stands at nearly 1211 meters. The ascent to the summit took less than four minutes, and the eVTOL remained stable even in wind speeds reaching 58 km/h. Additionally, the Jetson One demonstrated the ability to land and take off in confined spaces.

Rescue organizations unanimously agree that the Jetson One could serve as a pivotal tool in mountain rescue efforts, allowing for rapid initial care of injured individuals. Jetson is now planning to adapt the Jetson One further for mountain rescue operations and other life-saving scenarios.