The Transcend Air Vy 400 is a tiltwing convertible aircraft under development by American startup Transcend Air.
In September 2018, Transcend was flying two electric-powered, one-fifth-scale prototypes to evaluate aerodynamics of the vertical and forward flight transition. It should be followed by a half-scale prototype powered by a smaller PT6 to demonstrate the drive train. A 2019 Series A round would fund a full-scale crewed prototype flying in 18âÂÂ24 months, for a 2023 end certification. A manufacturing partner is sought to certify the aircraft for $350âÂÂ500 million and produce it. By November 2018, Transcend had selected VerdeGo Aero to provide hybrid electric propulsion systems after the turbine version.
The company wants to establish a short-haul scheduled airline between barges in 46 cities like Boston-New York/Washington, San Francisco-Los Angeles/San Diego or Montreal-Toronto, for less door-to-door cost than the combined cost of existing airlines plus ground transport while avoiding paying for an empty re-positioning leg like air charters, but is skeptical about the on-demand model behind urban air mobility.
In August 2023, Transcend Air announced the development of a larger model, the Vy 421, powered by twin CT7-8 engines. The aircraft has been redesigned to carry seven passengers.
The aircraft would be certified under the FAR Part 23 commuter category, with industry standards for compliance and elements of helicopters FAR Part 27. Steep approaches and departures is intended to minimize noise and airspace issues.
Its single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6-67F turboshaft from the drives wingtip proprotors via gearboxes and shafts, with collective and a electric tail fan for flight controls with fly-by-wire envelope protection. The cabin is larger than a high-performance turboprop single like the TBM 930 with wide seats and enough leg room for tall passengers, and it would have landing skids not wheels.
With a maximum takeoff weight of and a useful load of for fuel and a payload of five passengers with overnight bags, its range would be at .