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A Flying RV? The MVP Model 3 Is One Radical Camping Machine

MVP Aero is an innovative airplane manufacturing company working on what they believe will be the world’s most versatile aircraft, the MVP 3 (Most Versatile Plane) and we kind of think they may be right.

Founded in 2011, the company (run by father and son team Darrell and Michael Lynds), set out to prove that pilots should be able to expect more from a light sport aircraft.

Their unique solution, the MVP Model 3, combines the latest technology with a huge focus on ergonomics and the human factor. Not only will their plane be highly adaptable, it will be rugged as well.

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So far they have a scale mockup that has toured to thunderous applause and they’re well on their way to developing a plan for an actual trial model. Their proposed craft will be built from carbon and glass composite with fabric covered composite flying surfaces.

The MVP Model 3 from MVP Aero in flight.

MVP-Aero-Airplane-in flight
YouTube

The plane’s wing span is small at only 36 feet with an overall length just under 27 feet. It will have a cruising speed of a breezy 104 knots and carry up to 450 pounds of passengers and freight.

SEE ALSO: This Modern Ultra-Light Fiberglass Camper Showcases The Beauty And Utility Of Modular Design

The MVP Model 3 will come standard with an airframe parachute. The airframe parachute is capable of lowering the entire plane, with passengers, safely to the ground in the event of a catastrophic failure.

A small aircraft descending with a deployed airframe parachute.

Airframe parachute
SmithsonianMag

The MVP will be capable of safely landing on all sorts of terrain, including the water. It can even belly land in snow!

The MVP Aero 3 is highly versatile on the water.

MVP Aero Model 3 on water
YouTube

The magical properties of this flying RV shine after the plane touches down. Once on the water, the MVP can maneuver thanks to an integrated trolling motor. The cockpit area transforms into a “bass boat“-like platform for fishing, swimming or other fun water activities.

Trolling with the canopy raised.

canopy raised
YouTube

Both the canopy and instrument panel raise well clear of the cockpit, and side panels slide out to create a flat platform over the seating area. The wings can also be folded back to allow for parking in a traditional boat slip.

It’s also a shanty boat camper! MVP Model 3 with wings folded and tent canopy in place.

MVP3 in a slip with tent canopy deployed
YouTube

As if boating and flying was not enough, the MVP Model 3 will also triple as a camper, either on land or sea. A built-in fabric tent can be fitted from the raised canopy to the deck, creating a spacious cabin that will comfortably sleep two.

At the rear of the plane, a hammock can also be deployed between the back of the cabin and the tail. It’s easily accessed from a double “gang plank” runway that extends along the plane, making it possible to access the tail section, even on the water.

This specially fitted hammock can be deployed between cockpit and tail.

Hammock deployed between cabin and tail.
YouTube

All in all, the entire design is visionary. We can only hope this is the transport of the future.

Watch an animated video of the MVP Model 3.

Original video by MVP AERO

See the hybrid float plane up close and follow an interview with Darrel Lynds, President of MVP and one of the main personalities behind this revolutionary vehicle.

Original video by Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer

UP NEXT: Do Your Back Country Camping In Relative Comfort With This DIY Off Road Teardrop Camper




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