The Transition Roadable Aircraft carries two and will cost nearly $200,000.
A highway-worthy airplane moves one step closer to production with a recent weight exemption approved by the Federal Aviation Administration.
The Transition Roadable Aircraft, developed by Massachusetts-based engineering firm Terrafugia, will be allowed a maximum takeoff weight of 1,430 pounds, the same allowance made for aircraft designed to operate on water.
Other planes in the class, called Light Sport Aircraft, are limited to a maximum takeoff weight of 1,320 pounds.
"The main reason for that additional weight is the additional safety features that the Transition has -- because it's designed to be operated on the road -- that aren't found in other light aircraft," said Anna Dietrich, Terrafugia's chief operating officer.
A protective safety cage, airbags and an energy absorbing crumple zone are among the extra features.
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