Denver based startup XTI Aircraft Company (XTI) has selected Honeywell HTS900 turboshaft engine to power its first prototype of TriFan 6...
Denver based startup XTI Aircraft Company (XTI) has selected Honeywell HTS900 turboshaft engine to power its first prototype of TriFan 600 vertical takeoff airplane.
XTI has entered into a preliminary agreement with Honeywell to supply two engines for the piloted two-third subscale prototype of TriFan 600, along with an additional engine for use in XTI's Ground Propulsion Test System.
The engine incorporates a next-generation dual-centrifugal compressor architecture and is rated at 820 shaft horse power.
The TriFan 600 is a six-seat aircraft that will have the speed, range and comfort of a business jet and the ability to take off and land vertically, like a helicopter.
Using three ducted fans powered by two turboshafts, the TriFan 600 lifts off vertically and its two wing fans rotate forward for a seamless transition to cruise speed, at 400 miles an hour and a range of up to 1,600 miles.
XTI will build an operational propulsion jet stand that will house the Honeywell engine, drive train system, fans and flight controls. Once these important milestones are reached, XTI will complete development of the two-thirds piloted flying prototype.
Earlier XTI has announced that it will fly the first prototype within two years.
The company is headed by former veterans from Sikorsky, Cessna and Piper aircraft companies.
