Young Omani innovator, Rashid bin Khalid al Kalbani designs a cutting-edge wireless aircraft, aspires to soar higher in aviation

Fifteen-year-old Rashid bin Khalid al Kalbani has made a significant stride in the aviation sector by successfully designing an innovative wireless aircraft, showcasing exceptional skills in programming and 3D aircraft engineering.

In addition to his achievements in aircraft design, Rashid has also excelled in paragliding, a passion he has enjoyed since early childhood. He is a member of the Al Dhahirah amateur team at Ibri Club, which organises numerous events for paragliding, drone operation, and remote-controlled cars, while also fostering other interests like photography.

In 2021, Rashid joined the Al Dhahirah amateur team, becoming the youngest glider pilot in the Arab world.

In an interview with Muscat Daily, Rashid discussed his wireless aircraft, aptly named ‘A Small World Flying High’. This modern creation is classified as a ‘fixed wing’ aircraft, reflecting significant technological advancements that have transformed what were once hobbyist toys into versatile tools with a wide range of applications.

Rashid attributes his fascination with aviation to his father, who instilled a love of flying in him from an early age. Growing up around various gliders and wireless flying devices inspired Rashid to delve deeper into aviation and expand his knowledge.

He detailed the components of his innovative aircraft, noting that its structure is made from lightweight materials like cork and fibre. Powered by two engines and batteries, the aircraft features a control system that receives wireless signals, along with a GPS system for accurate location tracking.

Rashid’s design boasts a unique medium-sized profile with a three-dimensional character, capable of reaching speeds of up to 60km/h while weighing just 6kg. It is equipped with one engine and one propeller, with control managed wirelessly via remote.

Despite facing challenges, Rashid successfully manufactured the aircraft over approximately two weeks, conducting its first test flight in a designated area. In the third attempt, the aircraft took off successfully, following two crash landings.

Transformative experience

Regarding paragliding, Rashid said, “Paragliding offers a transformative experience that boosts self-confidence by helping individuals confront their fears and achieve the thrill of flight. This exhilarating activity not only provides a unique sense of freedom, liberating participants from stress and anxiety, but also grants breathtaking views of the landscape, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty of nature. Overall, paragliding is a powerful way to enhance self-esteem and embrace new challenges.”

He added that the paragliding club’s concerted efforts to encourage youth to develop skills in flying gliders, paragliding, and drone control, as well as hobbies like photography, have made Ibri a center for paragliding enthusiasts and adventure tourists visiting Oman.

Looking ahead, Rashid expressed his ambition to learn more about the tools and equipment necessary for building aircraft, and seeking practical experience in engineering and manufacturing. He aims to embark on larger projects and participate in competitions to evaluate his innovative skills.

With aspirations of establishing a commercial venture, Rashid plans to align his efforts with future academic pursuits. He envisions creating an educational workshop focused on building wireless aircraft, ultimately aiming to establish a commercial institution dedicated to gliding and wireless aviation.