Flight times to Manhattan are expected to be from five to 15 minutes, replacing what could be a two-hour car ride

Brazilian flying vehicle manufacturer sells BDRs via São Paulo stock exchange as part of an equity fundraising

Polish inventor Tomasz Patan has introduced the Volonaut Airbike, a compact flying vehicle that closely resembles the iconic speeder bikes from Star Wars. Recently revealed after operating in stealth mode, the Airbike is designed as a single-rider aircraft capable of reaching speeds up to 200 km/h (124 mph). Its design stands out due to the absence of exposed propellers, instead relying on jet propulsion to achieve lift and forward motion. This gives it a sleeker and more futuristic appearance compared to many existing eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) concepts. A key feature of the Airbike is its proprietary stabilization system, which is supported by a flight computer that enables automatic hovering and simplifies control for the rider. The riding position offers an unobstructed 360-degree field of view, enhancing both situational awareness and the immersive sensation of flight. According to Volonaut, the goal is to create a “superbike for the skies” that feels intuitive and liberating to operate. Promotional videos show the Airbike hovering steadily and maneuvering smoothly over varied terrain, including mountainous landscapes and streams. Patan, who previously co-founded Jetson, a company known for developing eVTOL aircraft, brings relevant experience to the project. While the Airbike is still in its early stages and there is no confirmed timeline for commercial availability, it represents a notable step toward personal aerial mobility. The concept taps into long-standing cultural fascination with flying vehicles and suggests that technologies once confined to science fiction may be closer to practical reality. However, questions remain about safety, regulation, affordability, and scalability before such vehicles could become widely accessible.