A car which can fly if caught in a traffic jam is soon to become a reality as the US aviation authority has given its nod for commercial production of “light sport” aircraft.
The aircraft “Terrafugia Transition”, which requires 1,700-feet runway to take off, will be the smallest aeroplane with a maximum weight of 1,320 lb.
The two-seater Transition can use its front-wheel to drive on roads, with wings folded, while it can take off from an adequately sized piece of flat land with the help of rear-facing propeller, unfolding electrically powered wings, the Telegraph reported.
Terrafugia Transition cruising speed in the air is 115 mph with a range of 460 miles, and it can carry 450 lb.
The United States federal aviation administration has granted special exemption to the vehicle, allowing it to be classified as a light sport aircraft despite being 120 lb over the limit.
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‘Edward III earl Shields’ ancestors’
London: A king of England and an earl of Leicester may be among the ancestors of Hollywood actress Brook Shields, an amateur genealogist has claimed.
Genealogist John Lloyd Marlow believes he has found a little-known connection between the actress and Simon de Montfort, the sixth earl of Leicester.
Through research on Internet, the 73-year-old says he has also found links between the actress and King Edward III, whose fourth son, John of Gaunt lived in Leicester Castle.
Marlow said he used the website lagenealogy.net to find details of the actress’ heritage. —IANS