Jaunt Journey

Its large, single rotor is its only source of vertical lift. For cruise flight, four propellers are mounted at the front of the aircraft’s wings. Originally designed by Carter Technologies, developers of the Carter Copter and its Slowed Rotor Compound (S/R/C) prototype, the Journey’s rotor speed equals the craft’s forward speed in cruise flight. The result is less noise, less drag, and the ability to act like a parachute in the event of a loss of power. An additional benefit comes from the Journey’s wings. Jaunt says the wings have lift/drag ratios similar to those of a fixed-wing airplane. Whether autorotating or gliding like an airplane, Jaunt says the Journey can land within an eight square mile radius from an altitude of 1,200 feet.

Jaunt is a product of AIRO Group Holdings, a Dallas-based, privately held entity with U.S., Canadian, and European participants. Manufacturing is expected to take place in India. Although privately held, a press release indicated that the company has plans to make an initial public offering. AIRO also has divisions responsible for avionics, training, and commercial drones.

There is scant information about the Journey’s developmental progress. In addition to an electrically powered model, a hybrid-electric version may be in the works. AIRO says the Journey can carry four passengers and will have an estimated maximum speed and range of 175 mph and 80 to 120 statute miles, respectively. It has completed 300 piloted flight hours, made more than 1,000 takeoffs and landings, and flown at more than 200 mph at 12,000 feet. In addition to its role as an air taxi, the Journey is also intended for medevac and cargo-hauling roles. Certification by Transport Canada and the United States’ FAR Part 23 regulations is anticipated in 2026.

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