Rotax Roars - Finally!
Update 25 July 2025
Another long-awaited milestone in the marathon to fly the Atol Aurora prototype for the first time was achieved this afternoon: our Rotax engine was started, and it ran successfully.
The aircraft was secured with fastening straps to heavy concrete blocks to prevent movement, but the plane looked eager to take off. It clearly wants to fly!
Rotax roared and test passed.
Starting an engine may sound simple and routine, but in our case, it signifies that all aircraft systems were powered and tuned for flight. After this successful run-up, we’re essentially ready to begin taxiing the aircraft and, soon after, take to the skies.
As the Atol Aurora is destined to be a certified aircraft, every step is meticulously prepared and documented for the airworthiness authorities, who review, audit, and monitor the certification process.
Next week will be dedicated to paperwork and preparing the plane for further action, which we hope will begin in early August. The next steps include initial taxi tests, a flight in ground effect, and, finally, the official first flight.
As we’ve stated many times before: we won’t fly until we’re 100% ready. We won’t jeopardize the program by rushing!