PT Dirgantara Indonesia's (PTDI) Role in the Vela Alpha Flying Car Project

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero) or PTDI, has committed to participating in the development of a flying car, Vela Alpha, spearheaded by PT Vela Prima Nusantara. The ambition is for Vela Alpha to be operational by the end of 2028.

Kerry Apriawan, the Assistant Manager of External Communication at PT Dirgantara Indonesia, highlighted PTDI's key role in the project was mainly in the utilization of the company's production facilities. "Starting from prototyping, testing, to production at PT Dirgantara Indonesia," Kerry said on Thursday, February 22, 2024.

At the Singapore Airshow 2024, held from February 20-25 at the Changi Exhibition Center, Singapore, PT Vela Prima Nusantara showcased Vela Alpha, which falls under the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) category. The event also featured PTDI's exhibition space.

PT Vela Prima Nusantara has earmarked Vela Alpha as its leading product. Since its establishment in 2020, the startup has collaborated extensively with PTDI, covering design, testing, certification, manufacturing, and maintenance, including repair and overhaul (MRO) processes.

The company predicts a growing demand for AAM aircraft, such as electric and hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL and hVTOL) models. "The company's mission is to become the leading AAM provider in the Asia Pacific region," said a written statement from PT Vela Prima Nusantara.

Vela Alpha is designed for a single pilot and four passengers, with the flexibility to accommodate up to six. This aircraft is capable of performing multiple flights on a single charge, offering a solution to urban traffic congestion, reducing travel times, and enhancing economic efficiency. Moreover, AAM aircraft are touted as being more eco-friendly.

Plans for Vela Alpha include two power variants: a fully electric VTOL and a hybrid VTOL, both utilizing the same airframe design. Currently, Vela is focusing on the early design stages, while the Alpha model is nearing completion.

The Vela Alpha AAM aircraft aims to secure certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Transportation. PT Vela Prima Nusantara has announced a competitive price range of US$ 1.5-2 million for Vela Alpha, positioning it as a cost-effective alternative to light helicopters in its class. The operational costs of Vela Alpha are also projected to be lower.

AHMAD FIKRI

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