Future Air Mobility UAM Prototype Unit 2 – Development and Flight

Duration: December 2022 – December 2024
Lead Organization: VSPACE
Role: Project Lead for Full Aircraft Development

Project Overview

This project focuses on developing a mass-production-optimized variant of the original single-seat UAM prototype. The previous prototype required intensive one-off fabrication efforts, making it impractical for scalable deployment. This second-generation model was designed with modularity, manufacturability, and certification-readiness in mind.

The goal was to redesign the system architecture to support localization of components, minimize production complexity, and validate real-world flight performance of the upgraded system.

My Contributions

Redesigned full aircraft layout to improve manufacturability and modularity
Led static and dynamic integration of propulsion, battery, and avionics subsystems
Conducted mass distribution optimization based on CG simulation and testing
Oversaw fabrication, final assembly, and hardware commissioning
Executed safety tether testing, hover testing, and untethered flight validation

Outcomes

Flight-ready prototype completed with streamlined assembly process
Validated structural strength and system reliability via tether and flight test
Improved symmetry, balance, and hover control performance over Unit 1
Established foundation for type certification pathway

Gallery

3D Model — Initial 3D model of Unit 2 UAM design showing structural modularity.

CG Simulation — Mass distribution and CG verification using frame simulation tools.

Front View — Completed aircraft – front view with lighting system active.

Right Side — Right profile view highlighting aerodynamic refinements.

Diagonal View — Three-quarter angle shot emphasizing stance and proportions.

Tether Test — Tethered hover test to verify control safety before free flight.

Hover Test — Untethered hover flight confirming attitude stability and control.

Flight Test Midair — In-air image of Unit 2 prototype during actual outdoor flight test.

Flight Path View — Flight trajectory tracking and visual confirmation during cruise mode.

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