Is this the future for travel? Germans launch the 'multicopter'

e-volo

Is it a bird? Is it a helicopter? No, it's the world's first ever manned multicopter.

A German engineering company has just managed to put a man flight using the technology normally used for flying model toys.

The one-and-a-half-minute flight took place amid much excitement in southwest Germany, and Thomas Senkel, physicist and designer, piloted the multi-propellered aircraft himself. Strapped into a centre-mounted seat, he used a handheld wireless control unit similar to that used for a model aeroplane. Scroll down to see a video.

The company, e-volo, claims the multicopter is simpler than a helicopter in terms of construction and mechanics. According to them, the contraption can land with up to four failed motors, and is propellers experience much less wear.

But will it catch on as the new way to get around? Let us know what you think!

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