The Ground Test Vehicle, Aircraft 1 completed the 200 hour FAA endurance run to certify the entire drive system including main, intermediate and tail gearboxes. Aircraft 2 and Aircraft 3 have flown more than 200 combined flight hours. Assessment of aircraft attributes continues to confirm predictions. The active vibration system has been functional since the first flight. Performance and range predictions have been validated.
Acoustic levels are below certification requirements.
Flights have been conducted at gross weights far in excess of initial goals with various cg locations, from full forward to full aft, at a wide range of airspeeds. Tethered hover flight, both in and out of ground effect, has recorded 31,000 pounds of lift generated, confirming projected performance. Flights continue with current emphasis focusing primarily on the handling qualities of the aircraft at various operating weights. Aircraft 4 incorporates a final update to the avionics configuration. Aircraft 5, the utility-configured aircraft, has participated in the Paris Air Show and the Nova Scotia International Air Show as a static display.