Pivotal, the Palo Alto, California-based company backed by Larry Page, has attracted attention with its light electric personal Helix aircraft, which is now on sale in the United States. Helix, which started online sales at CES 2024, stands out as a light electric personal aircraft that does not require a pilot license. It represents an evolution for Pivotal, formerly known as Opener, which has been working on a light electric vertical and take-off aircraft for more than a decade.
Pivotal, backed by Larry Page, had already attracted attention with the BlackFly with its tilted aircraft architecture, which was delivered to the first customer in June 2023. Helix is the first aircraft designed to be produced in larger volumes, reflecting the maturity of the company’s technology. Deliveries of the Helix, which will be sold only in the United States, will begin on June 10, 2024. The starting price of the Helix is $190,000, with prospective buyers requiring training and a budget of at least $190,000.
Pivotal Light Electric Personal Aircraft
Ken Karklin, CEO of Pivotal, says that “the market is ready for the miracle of aerial recreation and short-haul eVTOL travel.” Initial response has been very positive, with Kristina Menton, COO of Pivotal, reporting that potential customers began making reservations within the first hour of online sales.
The Helix does not require a Federal Aviation Administration pilot certificate and complies with the FAA Part 103 (Ultralight) category in the United States. However, there are some restrictions on the use of this aircraft. The FAA only allows Ultralight aircraft to fly in uncrowded areas and away from airports. Pivotal requires all buyers to undergo training. Other requirements for buyers include being at least 18 years old, weighing less than 220 pounds, and having a maximum height of 6 feet 5 inches.
Helix Light eVTOL Aircraft
The Helix is offered in three different configurations. The base package has a starting price of $190,000 and includes a white and carbon fiber exterior. Al so digital flight panel, HD landing camera, charger, trolley, custom markings and warranty. The second package starts at $240,000 and offers a gloss white and striped carbon fiber exterior. This package includes a trailer with biplane trolley, 4k camera with landing support, recording and sharing capabilities, an ADS-B air traffic system, two chargers and an enhanced warranty. The third package is priced at $260,000 and offers a carbon fiber exterior in bright white and special accent color. It also includes a premium flight deck, three chargers, beacon aircraft lighting, integrated emergency locator transmitter, an additional training bay and the option for full customization of the exterior depending on the design.
The Helix aircraft will be manufactured in Palo Alto, and customers will be able to order online with a non-refundable application fee of $250. However, to secure the production slot and estimated ship date, a deposit of $50,000 is due within five business days of placing the initial order. The Helix can reportedly be assembled in 30 minutes and, when disassembled, can fit on a 16-meter trailer. What do you think about US Sales of Helix Started?
