In a major step toward human-inspired aerial robotics, researchers in Italy have built what they describe as the first-ever flying humanoid robot. The robot, named iRonCub MK3, recently completed a vertical liftoff using four jet thrusters—two mounted in its arms and two on its back—marking a rare fusion of human-like form and flight.
A video released June 18 by the Italian Institute of Technology shows the robot suspended in place before powering its engines and rising roughly 20 inches (50 centimeters) off the ground. The demonstration, though assisted by a support frame for safety, marks the first time a humanoid robot of this type has lifted off with a self-propulsion system.
iRonCub MK3’s unusual appearance has also drawn attention. The robot stands at just 3 feet (1 meter) tall and weighs 49 pounds (22 kilograms). Its rounded body and smooth, shiny face give it the distinct look of a child—a design inherited from the iCub platform, which was first introduced in 2009.
Originally developed to study human behavior and artificial intelligence, the iCub has been utilized in dozens of academic and engineering projects across Europe over the past 16 years.
Humanoid robot could help in disaster zones
But this latest version goes beyond walking, mimicking gestures, or responding to commands. With flight now added to its capabilities, scientists believe it could one day help in environments too dangerous for humans, including disaster zones, chemical spills, and collapsed buildings.
Unlike many robots limited to ground movement, this system combines mobility with interaction. In theory, the robot could clear debris, search for victims, or perform basic tasks midair. It might also handle repairs in hard-to-reach spaces, such as beneath bridges or inside damaged industrial zones.
In a world first, an AI-powered humanoid robot from Italy flew using jet power.
The robot, named iRonCub 3, has four jet engines: two on its arms and two on its back. The Italian Institute of Technology in Genoa built the robot with help from Milan Polytechnic and Stanford.… pic.twitter.com/ahmW11tvQB
— Mike Kalil (@mikekalilmfg) June 19, 2025
To enable flight, engineers made several hardware upgrades. They replaced the robot’s spine with a stronger titanium version to support the added weight of the jetpack. New mounting brackets were installed to hold the engines in place.
Earlier versions struggled with heat from the exhaust, prompting the addition of fire-resistant panels and covers. The tilt of the thrusters was also adjusted to improve balance and prevent the robot from being scorched by its own engines.
Engineers prepare robot for liftoff and stability
For now, the robot’s forearms and hands have been removed to make space for the arm thrusters, although developers say these will return in future versions.
Scientists ran detailed computer simulations before moving to real-world testing. The team used force analysis to ensure the body could withstand the pressures of takeoff. During testing, the robot’s jet mounts were exposed to forces three times greater than the engine’s peak thrust to confirm structural stability.
Coordinating flight in a robot with multiple joints is no small feat. Engineers developed a real-time control system that continuously adjusts the robot’s limb positions and engine output to maintain a steady path. The flight controller must react to even small shifts in balance to keep the robot upright.
Now that the robot can follow a set flight path with precision, researchers plan to improve the system’s ability to respond to wind and other real-world disruptions.
The creation of this first-ever flying humanoid robot not only demonstrates technical innovation, but also opens the door to a future where machines with human-like forms can operate in the air as effectively as on land—even if they come with a baby face.
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