JetPack Aviation secure $2m funding for flying motorcycle

THE dream of owning your own flying motorcycle has just got a step closer, as JetPack Aviation (JPA) has secured funding to begin production of their Recreation Speeder flying motorcycle.

The project has been backed by a number of venture capital firms including Draper Associates, Jaan Tallinn, Y Combinator and Catheis Ventures.

JPA now plans to build two versions of the machine, one for use by private individuals, and one for use by military and government services. JPA claim that the latter could include getting paramedics or field doctors to a patient quicker or even resupplying troops faster and more stealthily than a helicopter.

The Recreational Speeder needs no licence to be flown – once it is built that is – and all flight training is to be provided by JPA. The private model is restricted to carrying 22l of fuel and travelling no more than 60mph. The commercial version is claimed to be capable of 150mph and has 12,000lbs of thrust. Both versions are said to have a 15,000ft flight ceiling.

Now funding is secured, JPA plan to build 20 of the private models of the machine, Each one requiring a $10,000 deposit and costing $380,000 – although for that you get the bike, a suit and a helmet!

JetPack Aviation Recreational Speeder specs

*Maximum thrust can vary depending on density altitude

**Endurance is dependent on pilot weight and density altitude

For more information the JPA Recreational Speeder, click here.