Manta Aircraft “Unveils Full-Scale Mock-Up of ANN 6 at November Zhuhai Airshow”
Two and a half weeks after China’s Zhuhai Airshow (November 12th-17th), and Manta Aircraft’s display of its full-scale mock-up of its new hybrid-electric long range HEV/STOL ANN 6, the company released a press release for the West celebrating its “landmark moment for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).” “This innovative aircraft,” says Manta, “sets new benchmarks for range, speed, and efficiency within the regional air mobility sector.”
The images are impressive.
The release explains, “The ANN 6 is a multipurpose, six-seater air vehicle offering comfortable space for 1 pilot and 5 passengers, for personal mobility, business travel, medical and cargo transport operations. Combining helicopter versatility with airplane efficiency, this aircraft supports both Vertical and Short Takeoff and Landing (VTOL & STOL), enabling operations anywhere, from airports to helipads to unprepared remote areas.”
It continues, “With a range of 300 km for VTOL operation and more than 1,000 km using a short airstrip for STOL operation, it offers unmatched mission flexibility, regardless of ground infrastructure. Its large radius allows extended missions without refueling, while batteries are recharged in flight, making it ideal for scenarios like outback, offshore and inter-regional operations. Perfect for both urban and remote locations, it delivers superior performance with minimal reliance on ground support.”
Under various headings the report explains the ANN 6 incorporates an advanced hybrid propulsion system, boasting eight ducted fans, four of them tiltable and positioned in the wings. They are optimised for vertical lift, while the winged aircraft design enables efficient and high-speed cruise, placing it at the forefront of the eVTOL and eSTOL aircraft performance.
ANN 6 Interior
“This configuration not only enhances maneuverability in diverse environments but also achieves speeds and ranges that exceed conventional eVTOL air taxi capabilities,” says the release. “Hence making it suitable for regional and inter-regional operations. Its hybrid powertrain is designed to offer significant flexibility: batteries recharge during flight, ensuring minimal downtime and maximising mission readiness.”
The ANN 6 is ideal for a variety of scenarios, including remote areas, interconnection of smaller cities with no airports close by, remote area support, offshore logistics, and emergency services, where traditional aircraft may fall short due to infrastructure limitations while being more affordable than comparable helicopters.
The full-size model offers the first opportunity to enter the aircraft, sit on the seats and look at the preliminary interiors and furnishings. Made from from nappa leather, Alcantara and a carbon fibre blend, the cabin offers elegance and bespoke customisation options, including colour palettes, seat embroidery and ambient lighting, as well as ample storage space and state-of-the-art instruments.
Key Benefits Overview
Long Endurance & Range
The hybrid propulsion system allows anoutstanding range for regional and intercity flights without recharging stops.
High Cruising Speed
High cruising speed enables fast commuting on medium and long distances.
Affordable operating costs
The hybrid propulsion system allows for an optimized propulsion system with a small gas turbine and light weight battery; the aircraft is designed to minimize maintenance costs. Battery life cycle costs are minimized.
Flexible Missions
Configuration flexibility adapts to different missions and operators (sensors, onboard systems, etc.)
Very low infrastructure needs
No need for battery recharging infrastructure. Ability to operate from unprepared fields.
Eco-friendly
Operating on SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel). Prepared to adopt a zero-emission hydrogen power plant.
Easy to Deploy
Modular design allows quick disassembly and assembly for transportation and repair: Wing, Canard, Fuselage, Power Pack Unit.
Customisable
Tailored equipment and configuration according to customers’ specs and needs. Customised livery and interiors.
The Manta Aircraft Team
Dimensions of the Preliminary Design
: Seats: 5 pax + 1 pilot
: Length: 12.30 m (40.35 ft)
: Wingspan: 12.10 m (39.69 ft)
: Height: 2.75 m (9.02 ft)
: Empty Weight 1’740 kg (3’836 lb)
: Payload: 500 kg (1’100 lb) in addition to the pilot
: MTOW VTOL operation: 2’520 kg (5’555 lb)
: MTOW STOL operation: 3’020 kg (6’658 lb)
Performance
: Cruising Speed: 240 km/h (130 kts)
: Dash Speed: > 330 km/h (178 kts)
: Endurance: > 1 h (VTOL) | > 4 h (STOL)
: Mission Capabilities
: VTOL/STOVL/STOL
The Airshow Public Gazing at the ANN 6
Key Systems
Propulsion
: Serial hybrid system (electric + eco-fuel)
: 8 electric ducted fans
Safety
: Crashworthy design
: Hybrid propulsion: redundant source of power (turbine & battery)
: Distributed propulsion for increased redundancy
Control
: Redundant full fly-by-wire control system
: HOTAS (Hands On Throttle-And-Stick)
: New advanced HMI (Human Machine Interface)
For more information
(Images: Manta Aircraft)
For the latest news, insights and content regarding the global Advanced Air Mobility market, please join the following eVTOL Insights channels: WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, X and LinkedIn.