Runway-independent launch without surrendering fixed-wing endurance.
The project explored hybrid VTOL architectures that combine vertical takeoff and landing with efficient wing-borne cruise. The challenge was to make aerodynamics, structure, propulsion, manufacturing and controls converge in one buildable aircraft.
Vertical-flight Requirement
Generate stable lift and adequate control authority without a runway or launch system.
Forward-flight Requirement
Transition to an efficient fixed-wing configuration for useful range and endurance.
Mechanical design with system integration kept in view.
Configuration & CAD development
Developed fixed-wing and tilt-wing/tilt-rotor eVTOL concepts in SolidWorks from early layout through detailed assemblies and drawings.
Structural Analysis
Used ANSYS FEA to evaluate load paths and support sizing decisions for the airframe and critical interfaces.
Manufacturing & assembly
Translated digital geometry into carbon-fibre and additively manufactured parts, then supported assembly and hardware integration.
Avionics Integration
Integrated Pixhawk, ArduPilot and Mission Planner workflows for autonomous flight and prototype testing.
A complete aircraft loop—from requirements to flight.
Define
Translate mission needs into configuration, performance, payload and autonomy requirements.
Design & Analyse
Iterate aerodynamic layout, propulsion, CAD geometry and structural response.
Manufacture
Produce CFRP and printed components, drawings, tooling and assembled airframe hardware.
Integrate & Fly
Install propulsion and avionics, configure flight software and progress to prototype flight.
A four-person thesis team spanning the complete vehicle.
Aqib Habib
Airframe development, structural analysis, manufacturing and flight-control integration.
Muhammad Salman Azam
Documentation, Manufacturing and Developement
Sameer Bin Khalid
Research, MATLAB and Manufacturing
Usman Shahid
Pilot, Ardupilot and Mission Planner
A designed, manufactured and flying hybrid VTOL prototype.
The work produced a traceable aircraft-development package—analyses, CAD, engineering drawings, MATLAB work, reports and flight hardware—alongside a working prototype. The project was recognised as the best undergraduate project/thesis at NUST.