Tomasz Patan, the Polish inventor, has brought something from a science fiction movie to life. He has created a machine that is even better than the hovercar in THX 1138–this world’s most advanced jet-powered hoverbike, the Volonaut Airbike. In a recent test carried out in the natural environment, called ‘real world testing’, Airbike flew it through dense forests; this marked a major advance in personal aviation technology.
When asked about the flight, a Volonaut spokeswoman said the Airbike lifted off smoothly, flew just beneath several trees, and landed precisely. She emphasized that it was completely real — with no computer graphics or editing involved in the video. Once seen up in the air, the scene looked like something from a futuristic movie. But now it really was happening.
Built using 3D printed parts and carbon composite materials, the Airbike combines advanced thinking with performance that packs a punch. Reportedly capable of reaching speeds up to 200 km/h (124 mph), this jet-powered hovercraft can stay airborne for 10 minutes on a single tank of fuel. Its compact design provides a balanced take-off at all times, as can be seen from the successful flight examination.