UK hybrid electric SAMAD Aerospace launches Q-STARLING high-end PAV

SAMAD aerospace, the British hybrid electric VTOL aviation company, has launched “its concept” for Q-Starling, a high-end Personal Air Vehicle (PAV), reports aviationpros.com. The Q-Starling takes elements from both fast jets and VTOL aircraft. The company describes it as “an innovative modern design” and “a new pinnacle in future sustainable aircraft.”

Combining the benefits of traditional flight with VTOL capabilities, the Q-Starling can seat two passengers and be flown by pilots with an appropriate class rating. Taking inspiration from classic aircraft such as the Victor, Hawk, Mustang as well as modern high-end sports cars, the Q-Starling interior also has a stylish design.

The cockpit has been designed to “top automotive standards of comfort” and includes “additional transparencies and synthetic vision to enhance situational awareness.” The company hopes the Q-Starling will be a “must have for those who wish to have the latest and greatest in Personal Air Vehicles.”

Q-Starling is to be powered by a hybrid-electric turbo-generator that provides power for a large diameter hover fan and a fly-by-wire controlled ‘Reaction Control System’ (RCS). The turbo-generator then provides forward thrust once the aircraft has transitioned from vertical flight.

Controlled by a “comprehensive electronic flight system,” the Q-Starling will have “numerous and extensive safety systems in-built to prevent the aircraft from departing the flight envelope.” The traditional rudder pedals have been absorbed into the flight system and present the pilot with a simplified side-stick control. The Q-Starling will maintain full authoritative control, but has the benefit of a simplified control interface.

The aircraft is expected to have a 10 hour flight range, where materials used are made of ultra-light carbon fibre giving a higher performance capability and enabling semi-aerobatic manoeuvres due to the increased strength of the composite material and design.

Dr. Seyed Mohseni, CEO of SAMAD aerospace, said, “The Q-Starling will offer owners the ultimate luxury in personal hybrid-electric flying.”

News Source: Urban Air Mobility

Kevalya Sheth
AIRCRAFT DESIGN ENGINEER

Kevalya is an innovative aerospace engineer passionate about unmanned aerial systems, and sustainable civil aviation. He holds a Master’s in Aerospace Vehicle Design from Cranfield University and a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he gained experience in UAV design and aerodynamic analysis. Kevalya has over two years of experience at NewSpace Research and Technologies (Bengaluru, India), contributing to UAV design, testing, and AI integration for swarm drone operations. He played a key role in the first tandem wing UAV in India. With experience in aircraft design, structural analysis, aerodynamics, and flight testing, Kevalya brings valuable skills in cutting-edge aerospace projects involving unmanned systems and sustainable aviation.