EASA Approves PAL-V Liberty, Bringing Flying Car Closer to Market

PAL-V, a Dutch company pioneering the development of the world’s first FlyDrive vehicle, has achieved a significant milestone in the certification process for its Liberty model. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a No Technical Objection (NTO) statement, endorsing PAL-V’s compliance demonstration program as part of the final stages of flight certification.

"This is the first time ever we have issued a No Technical Objection for a FlyDrive vehicle in the Innovative Air Mobility sector. It is a major step toward certifying the PAL-V Liberty,” said Volker Arnsmeier, Senior Project Certification Manager for VTOL, EASA.

The PAL-V Liberty, under development since 2008, is a dual-purpose vehicle capable of both road driving and flight. The NTO approval confirms no identified risks preventing the completion of the vehicle’s full type certification. This milestone allows PAL-V to advance toward the final phase of EASA certification, known for its stringent safety standards.

The Liberty distinguishes itself in the emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market with a design that integrates road and air travel. In flight mode, the vehicle achieves a top speed of 180 km/h (110 mph) with a range of up to 500 km (310 miles) and an endurance of four hours. On the road, it transforms into a three-wheeled car, reaching a top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph) and offering a range of 1,315 kilometers (817 miles). Powered by two Rotax 912iS engines, the Liberty uses gyroplane technology for stability and lift during flight.

EASA’s NTO validates PAL-V's technical compliance with the certification process, including the innovative rotor blade design. The composite rotor blades, spanning almost 11 meters, provide a 20% increase in efficiency with reduced drag compared to conventional blades. This design enhances performance and lowers fuel consumption.

The certification process for the PAL-V Liberty has been extensive. The vehicle received road-use certification in 2020, and since then, PAL-V has collaborated closely with EASA to meet over 1,500 criteria for flight certification. This work is based on the Certification Specifications for Small Rotorcraft (CS-27), ensuring the Liberty meets all required safety and performance standards.

“Bringing our vehicles to market as quickly as possible has always been our goal, but when it comes to safety, there are no shortcuts. Our long-term vision ensures the maturity of the business and the sustainable viability of the FlyDrive concept," said Robert Dingemanse, CEO and Founder, PAL-V.