Companies · United States
Pivotal
The Los Angeles Times reported on January 30, 2026 that Palo Alto-based Pivotal, formerly Opener, was selling the Helix and had been developing the technology since 2009. The Times said the Helix starts at $190,000, with a $50,000 deposit, a $21,000 trailer and a $1,100 charger, and that delivery was expected in nine to 12 months. It said Pivotal classifies the Helix as a Part 103 ultralight, that buyers do not need a pilot's licence, and that Pivotal requires training and an FAA knowledge test. The Times also said the aircraft weighs about 355 pounds empty. The ultralight rule text is separate: 14 CFR 103.1 says a powered ultralight weighs less than 254 pounds empty, among other conditions. This page does not resolve that difference. Part 103 is not a type certificate.
- Status
- Active
- Updated
- Where the source places it
- Palo Alto, California
Vehicles
- Helix (BlackFly successor) On sale
Certificates
| Vehicle | Document | Standing | Date | What the source says | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Part 103 ultralight (not a type certificate) |
Not issued |
The Los Angeles Times reported that Pivotal classifies the Helix as a Part 103 ultralight and that it weighs about 355 pounds empty. 14 CFR 103.1 says a powered ultralight weighs less than 254 pounds empty and has no airworthiness certificate. This page does not resolve that difference. Part 103 is not a type certificate. The January 30, 2026 date is the article date, not an issuance date. |
Funding and orders
No funding or order row is recorded here yet.