WashU VTOL

Build
the future

WashU VTOL brings together students across disciplines to design, build, and test a vertical take-off and landing aircraft. We learn by making real systems work, reviewing every decision, and iterating until the aircraft is ready for flight.

WashU VTOL student aerospace team working on an aircraft

Design.

Using computer-aided design tools, we develop and refine every aspect of our VTOL, from the primary airframe and propulsion integration to custom-manufactured components and pilot interface systems. Every component is analyzed, reviewed, and validated before it becomes part of the aircraft.

Test.

A design is only successful if it performs as intended in flight. We validate our aircraft through rigorous aeronautical testing and simulation, then refine the design whenever performance falls short.

WashU VTOL team building a vertical flight aircraft

Compete.

Each year, the Vertical Flight Society introduces a new mission profile. We adapt our aircraft to the challenge, bringing together design, build, testing, and operations in one competitive engineering program.

Find your
specialty

Many disciplines.

Mechanical, electrical, and software systems have to work together before the team can take the aircraft to the sky.

01

Mechanical

Airframe, structures, and manufacturing

02

Electrical

Power, avionics, propulsion, and automation

03

Software

Controls, telemetry, and systems

Partners

Build with us.

We are always open to new collaborators and supporters, email us at washuvtol@gmail.com.

Student Powered Flight

Build the future