San Francisco company Cobalt has introduced a line of small planes targeted at design-minded luxury consumers.
The five-seat single engine planes, known as the Co50 Valkyrie and the Valkryie-X, are now available for preorder, with the Co50 Valkryie expected to be available in 2017. Cobalt founder David Loury, an aerospace engineer, designed both of the aircrafts.
The Co50 Valkryie travels up to 260 knots with a single-piston engine and has a range of 1,050 nautical miles.
The aircraft's one-piece canopy offers expansive 360-degree views and its bodywork is available in many colours, including the company's signature dark blue.
The plane's interiors feature hand stitched leather interiors and a simple dashboard with a single on/off switch. Ample storage is designed to accommodate golf clubs or skis.
David Loury founded Cobalt in 2008, and after several rounds of funding he is bringing the planes to market.
"Ten years ago, I had a vision to disrupt the aviation industry with an innovative private aircraft that is not only technologically sound and safe, but also design-centric and luxurious," David Loury said.
"Today, Cobalt is no longer just a prototype," he added. "It's a world class aircraft, complete with advanced safety, technology, and modern design features for travel-loving consumers and aviation enthusiasts."
All Cobalt aircraft will be manufactured to order in California. Each plane comes with an onboard parachute.
The Co50 is one sale for $699,000, while the Valkryie-X – still in development – will cost $595,000. All preorders require a $15,000 deposit.
A variety prominent designers are working with aviation companies on both the shells and the interiors. New York-based studio Snarkitecture recently covered a private jet in a blue ombre coating for Art Basel Miami Beach. Dutch designer Hella Jongerius redesigned economy and business cabins for KLM to make them more "homelike."
Meanwhile, Airbus is looking to pack even more passengers into commercial flights with a recent patent application for two-storey seating.