Otto Aviation has revealed plans for the Celera 500L, a fuel-efficient, commercially viable passenger aircraft. The full-scale prototype has completed 31 test flights that validate its operating performance goals. Otto currently holds seven patents.

The Celera 500L has a maximum cruise speed of 450 miles per hour, a range of over 4,500 nm, a large stand-up cabin and a fuel economy of 18 to 25 miles per gallon. The reduction in fuel consumption makes the Celera 500L an environmentally friendly aircraft and Otto says it represents a major leap forward in the effort to develop a zero-emission air transportation system.

The Celera 500L utilises extensive laminar flow over the fuselage, wings and tail surfaces to reduce drag and achieve superior aerodynamics, speed and fuel efficiency. The manufacturing detail delivers cruise efficiencies while a clean-sheet design could alter the way ‘people and parcels’ travel.

“Innovation at its core is solving a problem without conventional bias,” states William Otto, chairman and chief scientist. “Our goal was to create a private aircraft that would allow for direct flights between any city pair in the US at speeds and cost comparable to commercial air travel. In many cases, individuals and families will be able to charter the Celera 500L at prices comparable to commercial airfares, but with the added convenience of private aviation. We believe when the price of private air travel is competitive with commercial air travel, an enormous market opportunity will result.

“We believe the Celera 500L is the biggest thing to happen to both the aviation and travel industries in 50 years. Beyond using our aircraft for passenger travel, it can also be used for cargo operations and military applications. Since the results from our prototype test flights have been so promising, we're ready to bring the Celera 500L to market.”

Otto Aviation has designed the aircraft to meet the highest level of safety and compliance with FAA and international aviation regulations. In addition, the ability to fly privately has become very attractive to passengers due to the current global health crisis. A Series B funding round for Otto Aviation is now open.