This simple concept is based on ionocrafts (colloquially named 'lifters') which use a high voltage difference between two asymetrical electrodes to generate ionic wind and thus thrust. In this case, the electrodes are horizontal and airfoil-shaped so that lift is generated along with thrust : it works kind like an enclosed version of a tandem multiplane aircraft [1].

Of course more advanced systems exists, like the WEAV [2] which employs multi-layer dielectric barrier discharge actuators to generate airflow without moving parts.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caproni_Ca.60
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wingl.....ic_Air_Vehicle