A magnetic lifting device is described. The magnetic lifting device can be configured to generate magnetic lift using a moving magnetic field to generate an eddy current effect in conductive substrate beneath the device. In one embodiment, the moving magnetic field can be generated by a rotor with arrangement of permanent magnets which is driven by a motor. In operation, the rotor can be spun up from rest to above a threshold velocity, which causes the magnetic lifting device to rise up from the conductive substrate, hover in place in free flight and move from location to location. In free flight, the magnetic lifting device can be configured to carry a payload, such as a person.