Aircooled VW South Africa

‘Flying Car’ Approved for Production

One of the more unusual approaches to the flying car combines a dune buggy with a propeller and a big parachute. It’s odd, but that hasn’t kept the FAA from approving it for production by issuing a Special Light Sport Aircraft airworthiness certificate.

The flying buggy is called Maverick and Itec, the Florida company building it, calls it transportation for “frontier areas of the world.” It’s said to be a capable off-roader that is Department of Transportation-approved for road use and classified as a powered parachute for flight.

When the Maverick first appeared at Airventure Oshkosh in 2009, many were skeptical about its practicality. But its inventor says it is designed for use in the remote corners of the globe where roads — not to mention airports and certified pilots — are rare. With a few hours of training, anyone can learn to fly Maverick in the relatively simple powered parachute configuration using the steering wheel and gas pedal during flight. Floats can be attached to the car for river crossings.

In addition to the missionary use it was designed for, several government agencies including law enforcement have expressed interest in the Maverick, Itec claims. Other potential users include ranchers, pipeline patrols and forest fire spotters. The car can be driven under kit car rules, and the recent S-LSA approval gives Itec the go-ahead to begin production as a light sport aircraft. The price tag is $84,000.