KITE Passenger drone for the Greater Bay Area

The restrictions that followed the Covid-19 pandemic have heavily hit air travel and tourism, especially in Asia. A key player in restarting the economy and tourism in Asia is the Greater Bay Area, a large industrial region in Southern China, which includes nine cities and the two special-administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. KITE is a passenger drone designed to connect the cities of the Greater Bay Area in the post-Covid era. This fully electric, zero-emission, unmanned vehicle features cutting-edge technology and a sophisticated, minimalist design that reflects the spirit of Hong Kong and its region.

The name KITE was inspired by the black kite, a majestic migratory bird that can be found in Hong Kong during the winter. With a 150cm wingspan, it is an extremely fast, agile, and intelligent bird of prey. KITE’s rounded and compact fuselage minimizes drag and optimizes maneuverability during flight. Its interior layout recalls a private jet, with a central aisle and one line of seats on either side. The cabin can be accessed through a single rear door, while the glass side panels work as emergency exits. 

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KITE is a passenger drone designed to connect the cities of the Greater Bay Area in the post-Covid era – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

KITE is propelled by four double-helix rotors attached to the composite fuselage – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

KITE is propelled by four double-helix rotors attached to the composite fuselage – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

The cabin offers four single seats with 4-point quick-release harnesses – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

The cabin offers four single seats with 4-point quick-release harnesses – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

The cabin offers four single seats with 4-point quick-release harnesses – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

In this transition phase when air travel has decreased significantly, KITE offers a new option for inter-city transit within the Greater Bay Area – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

KITE’s rounded and compact fuselage minimizes drag and optimizes maneuverability during flight – Image Courtesy of Andrea Ponti

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KITE is propelled by four double-helix rotors attached to the composite fuselage which features LED headlights for landing and low-altitude flying, and retractable landing skids. On the ground, it docks onto a platform for embarking/ disembarking and recharging in between flights.

The cabin offers four single seats with 4-point quick-release harnesses, one front screen, and two rear screens that display takeoff, flight, and landing information. The seats can recline and they feature a polycarbonate shell, with a soft fabric cover and leather cushions. Asymmetric seat stands create under-seat storage space for carry-ons, whereas the area behind the back seats offers storage for bigger luggage. Buttons and retractable trays are integrated in the armrests for maximum in-flight comfort.

In this transition phase when air travel has decreased significantly, KITE offers a new option for inter-city transit within the Greater Bay Area. With its sophisticated design, composite materials, and advanced technology, KITE is a sustainable and attractive alternative to more traditional forms of air or land transport. KITE also embodies the innovative drive of this up-and-coming region and it promotes the advancement of scientific and technological research, not only in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area but in all of Asia.