How would you like to take this to work? It could be a reality for some as early as 2011. Above, the Terrafugia Transition takes off on its maiden voyage on March 5, in what company officials called "a historic milestone for aviation." The two-seat aircraft is designed to take off and land at local airports and drive on any road.
Terrafugia CEO Carl Dietrich fills up the Transition. The vehicle has front wheel drive on the road and a propeller for flight, both of which run on unleaded auto gas. "This breakthrough changes the world of personal mobility," Dietrich said. "Travel now becomes a hassle-free integrated land-air experience. It's what aviation enthusiasts have been striving for since 1918."
The Transition can cruise in the air at 115 mph and can drive at highway speeds on the road. The vehicle underwent six months of road and static testing before it made its maiden flight.
The Transition flies in formation with a chase aircraft. Flying the aircraft would require a minimum of a light sport plane pilot's license, which is necessary to fly any plane weighing less than 1,350 pounds.
Terrafugia hopes to have the aircraft on the market by the end of 2011. About 40 people already have put down a refundable deposit on the $194,000 price tag. (Source: CBS, Terrafugia)