Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

SAMAD aerospace unveils Q-Starling

British hybrid electric VTOL aviation company, SAMAD aerospace, has launched its concept design for Q-Starling, a high-end Personal Air Vehicle (PAV).

Image courtesy SAMAD aerospace

With an innovative modern design taking elements from both fast jets and VTOL aircraft, the Q- Starling represents a new pinnacle in future sustainable aircraft design.

Combining the benefits of traditional flight with VTOL capabilities, the Q-Starling will seat two passengers and can be flown by pilots with an anticipated appropriate class rating.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Taking inspiration from classic aircraft such as the Victor, Hawk, Mustang and modern high-end sport cars, the Q-Starling interior also has an exclusive stylish design.

The cockpit has been designed to the highest automotive standards of comfort and will include additional transparencies and synthetic vision to enhance situational awareness.

Representing a step forward in VTOL design, the Q-Starling will be a ‘must have’ for those who wish to have the latest and greatest in Personal Air Vehicles.
Q-Starling will be powered by a hybrid-electric turbo-generator which will provide power for a large diameter hover fan and a fly-by-wire controlled ‘Reaction Control System’ (RCS). The turbo- generator will then provide forward thrust once the aircraft has transitioned from vertical flight.

Controlled by a comprehensive electronic flight system, the Q-Starling will have numerous and extensive safety systems in-built to prevent the aircraft from departing the flight envelope. In keeping with other ultra-light aircraft it will feature as a ballistic recovery system.

The traditional rudder pedals have been absorbed into the flight system and present the pilot with a simplified side-stick control. The Q-Starling will maintain full authoritative control but having the benefit of a simplified control interface.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

The aircraft is expected to have a low entry barrier to private flight with an expected conversion requirement of around 10 hours for the average PPL.

All materials used in the aircraft are made of ultra-light carbon fibre giving a higher performance capability and enabling semi-aerobatic manoeuvres due to the increased strength of the composite material and design.

Speaking from his UK Head Office at Cranfield Technology Park, Dr Seyed Mohseni, CEO of SAMAD aerospace, said: “The Q-Starling will give owners the ultimate luxury in personal hybrid-electric flying. The efficient sustainable Q-Starling will give passengers unparalleled point-to-point mobility options.”

SAMAD aerospace continues to lead the way in the development of hybrid electric aircraft. The SAMAD aerospace team intend to make flying as common practice as driving with the ability to move directly from point-to-point.

 

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
ABT sets framework for OEM battery development

Aerospace Defence Security

ABT sets framework for OEM battery development

2 February 2026

UK battery pack manufacturer Alexander Battery Technologies (ABT), has set out a clearer framework for how OEMs can approach battery development.

AGS secures £745m refinancing package

Aerospace

AGS secures £745m refinancing package

2 February 2026

AGS Airports (AGS) - which operates Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports and collectively handles over 11 million passengers annually - has completed a £745 million refinancing package, with support from Allied Irish Bank (AIB).

Helen Hardy appointed CEO of CILT (UK)

Aerospace

Helen Hardy appointed CEO of CILT (UK)

2 February 2026

The Board of Trustees of The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK) is pleased to confirm the appointment of Helen Hardy as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following a successful seven-month period as Interim CEO.

Report exposes airports’ long term investment and financial viability challenge

Aerospace

Report exposes airports’ long term investment and financial viability challenge

2 February 2026

ACI EUROPE recently released a landmark report on the future viability of the airport industry, based on research conducted by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG): 'Decoupling Financial Viability from Volume Growth: Charting the Way Forward for Europe’s Airports'.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

Aerospace Defence

Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

30 January 2026

Cranfield University has successfully revalidated its prestigious Gold Employer Recognition Scheme status, awarded by the Ministry of Defence to organisations that support the Armed Forces community and share the values in the Armed Forces Covenant.

IATA reports strong passenger and cargo demand in 2025

Aerospace

IATA reports strong passenger and cargo demand in 2025

29 January 2026

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released 2025 full-year and December 2025 global passenger market and air cargo performance data showing record high demand.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB