Turning vision into reality

PAL-V had its maiden flight in 2012 after going through an extensive testing phase. With these flights and driving the prototype, the concept was proven not only technically feasable, but also certifiable within the existing regulations. Work continued on the next steps of the development. The discussions with EASA were initiated to establish the Certification Basis. 

After going through an extensive testing and certification phase, PAL-V obtained road admission in 2020. In other words, the PAL-V Liberty was given a European license plate, and is allowed to drive on public roads

The process was initiated together with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to agree on the detailed requirements against which the Liberty must be certified. EASA certification was chosen as it provides access to one of the world's most widely recognised aviation regulatory frameworks and a certification basis that can be transferred and leveraged in many other jurisdictions worldwide.  

PAL-V performed the final development test on the complete vehicle, the so-called aborted-take-off test cycles. During these tests, the vehicle was driven at increasing velocities and the rotor rotated increasingly faster. Just before the moment of potential take-off, the take-off was interrupted. This was a very important milestone, as it meant the end of the development phase. 

In June 2024, PAL-V received “No Technical Objection” on the Vehicle Certification Program. This approval means that the certification basis (the set of requirements the PAL-V design must meet) and the means to demonstrate compliance (how we prove that the PAL-V design meets these requirements) have been accepted by EASA. It also represents confidence that EASA finds the concept certifiable based on the proposed activities. Simply put, this is a ‘green light’ to proceed with testing and demonstrating compliance based on the approved plan. 

The RDW, the Netherlands Vehicle Authority responsible for the approval and oversight of vehicles, has granted PAL-V its Initial Assessment, officially recognizing PAL-V as a certified automotive manufacturer. This approval enables PAL-V to produce type‑certified, road‑legal vehicles at its manufacturing facility in the Netherlands in accordance with European automotive standards.

PAL-V will hand over the keys of the PAL-V Liberty to its customers.