Air Taxi or Flying Cars

Air Taxi

Air taxis, also known as flying cars or electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, are a new form of transportation that is expected to revolutionize local travel. These electric-air-taxi services will provide quick trips through the sky, with flights as short as 10 minutes and as far as 100 miles, and are designed to be quiet enough to allow passengers to converse during the flight. Companies like Joby Aviation and Wisk are developing electric air taxis that take off and land vertically, offering a faster, cleaner, and smarter way to travel. Joby Aviation, for example, is working on a pioneering electric aircraft powered by six electric motors, with the aim of beginning commercial passenger service in 2025. Skyway Air Taxi is another company offering affordable private air travel, providing the freedom to fly direct on a personalized schedule at a fraction of the cost of traditional air charter services.

The development of air taxis is part of the broader Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry, which aims to transform the future of mobility by providing innovative and sustainable aerial transportation solutions. These electric air taxis are designed to meet stringent safety standards set by aviation regulators and are undergoing extensive testing and certification programs to ensure their safety and reliability for commercial operations.

The introduction of air taxis is expected to offer a green alternative to driving, reduce travel time, and provide a convenient and exclusive flying experience. While the exact cost of air-taxi flights is yet to be confirmed, industry leaders anticipate that air-taxi services will eventually cost no more than a typical Uber ride, making them an attractive option for urban and regional travel.

Air Taxies are available at -

Several cities around the world are exploring the implementation of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis. Some of the cities that have hosted test flights or are considering eVTOL air taxi services include:

Air Taxi in New York City, USA

Joby Aviation and Volocopter have performed test flights in New York City, and the city's mayor has announced plans to electrify the Downtown Heliport.

Air Taxi in Washington, DC, USA

Potential eVTOL commuter demand is concentrated in a handful of cities, including Washington, DC. 

Wisk has also brought one of its autonomous eVTOL air taxi mockups for display in the rotunda of the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, DC.

Air Taxi in San Francisco, USA

Air taxis could begin flying between airports and downtown areas as soon as 2025 in major cities like San Francisco, backed by companies like Boeing, Delta Air Lines, Stellantis, Toyota Motor North America, and United Airlines.

Air Taxi in Los Angeles, USA

Similar to San Francisco, air taxis could also be flying between airports and downtown areas in Los Angeles by 2025.

Air Taxi in London, UK

London is considering adopting eVTOL air taxis to help tackle congestion and improve air quality in the city.

Air Taxi in Paris, France

Paris is another city exploring the implementation of eVTOL air taxis to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.

Air Taxi in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is also considering adopting eVTOL air taxis to address the city's traffic and air quality issues.

Air Taxi in Dubai, UAE

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed an agreement with SkyDrive, a Japanese company, to launch air taxi services in the city.

Air Taxi in Singapore

Singapore's Civil Aviation Authority has approved the use of eVTOL aircraft for air taxi services, and companies like Volocopter and SkyDrive are planning to launch air taxi services in the city.

Air Taxi in Sydney, Australia

The New South Wales government has announced plans to establish a network of vertiports across Sydney to support the introduction of air taxis.

While these cities are currently exploring the implementation of eVTOL air taxis, other major cities around the world are also considering adopting this technology. The FAA expects eVTOL aircraft to be operating "at scale" by 2028, and for that to happen, cities will need to be ready for busier skies and the demand for sites where eVTOLs can take off and land, known as vertiports.

Air Taxi Technologies

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis are powered by electric motors and use advanced technologies to enable safe and efficient flight. Some of the technologies being developed for eVTOL air taxis include:

Fly-by-wire system

A control computer condensed into one system that's about the size of a paperback book, tailored for aircraft designed to transport humans over urban environments.

Cloud-connected avionics system

Honeywell Anthem, a system that can fit any aircraft, is being used by Lilium Jet and Vertical Aerospace's eVTOL aircraft, among others.

Satellite solutions

Designed to fit UAM vehicles, these solutions will help ensure safe and efficient flight.

Air traffic management integration simulation

NASA and Joby Aviation have developed a simulation to help identify air traffic controller tools and procedures that could enable high-density air taxi operations at busy airports.

Net-zero production facility

Future-of-aviation startup Beta Technologies has opened a net-zero production facility to make both conventional and eVTOL aircraft.

In addition to these technologies, air taxi companies are also developing autonomous flight capabilities, which will enable safe and efficient flight without the need for a pilot.

Overall, the development of advanced technologies is crucial to the success of eVTOL air taxis, as they must meet stringent safety standards set by aviation regulators and undergo extensive testing and certification programs to ensure their safety and reliability for commercial operations

Expected Cost, Time, Speed, and Rules for Air Taxies

The expected cost, time, and speed of air taxi services are not explicitly provided. However, it is stated that air taxi services are expected to eventually cost no more than a typical Uber ride.

Additionally, air taxi services are advertised as a quick and convenient alternative to ground transportation, with the potential to complete trips in a fraction of the time it would take by car.

The speed of air taxis is expected to be faster than ground transportation, as they are designed to provide quick trips through the sky, with flights as short as 10 minutes and as far as 100 miles.

Regarding rules, air taxis must meet stringent safety standards set by aviation regulators and undergo extensive testing and certification programs to ensure their safety and reliability for commercial operations.

The FAA expects eVTOL aircraft to be operating "at scale" by 2028, and for that to happen, cities will need to be ready for busier skies and the demand for sites where eVTOLs can take off and land, known as vertiports

Which Fuel Consumption Options are in the Air Taxi?

Air taxis are primarily designed to be powered by electric motors and batteries, making them more environmentally friendly and efficient. This electric propulsion system eliminates the use of traditional fossil fuels and reduces harmful emissions. Therefore, the predominant fuel source for air taxis is electricity, which is used to charge the onboard batteries that power the electric motors. This aligns with the industry's focus on developing sustainable and low-emission aerial transportation solutions.

How to book a Air Taxi?

To take the experience of traveling in an air taxi, consider the following tips:

Research the destination: Before booking a flight, research the attractions, landmarks, and local culture of the destination to make the most of your trip.

Choose a reputable air taxi service: Select a company that has a proven track record in providing safe and reliable air taxi services.

Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement and is suitable for the local weather conditions.

Pack light: Bring only essential items, such as a charged phone, charger, and a small first-aid kit, as air taxis have limited space for luggage.

Plan your itinerary: Plan your trip in advance, considering the duration and availability of air taxi services. Be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

Be prepared for takeoff and landing: Air taxis may have different takeoff and landing procedures compared to traditional aircraft. Familiarize yourself with these procedures to ensure a smooth experience.

Enjoy the view: Take advantage of the unique perspective and breathtaking views that air taxis offer during takeoff, flight, and landing.

Engage with the local culture: Once you arrive at your destination, immerse yourself in the local culture, try local cuisine, and engage with the people to make your trip more memorable.

By following these tips, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience while traveling in an air taxi.

Air Taxies Models

Here are some air taxi models that are currently in development:

AeroMobil's Prototype: AeroMobil is working on a functioning flying car.

Airbus Vahana: Airbus is developing the Vahana eVTOL aircraft.

Volocopter 2X: Volocopter is working on the Volocopter 2X, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

Porsche and Boeing Collaboration: Porsche and Boeing are collaborating to explore the market for flying taxis. They are working on a concept for a vertical takeoff and landing vehicle that's fully electric, stylish, and innovative.

Joby Aviation's VTOL Aircraft: Joby Aviation has developed a VTOL aircraft with a range of 150 miles and a top speed of 200 mph. It is powered by six electric motors and can seat up to five people.

These are some of the air taxi models and prototypes that are currently in development by various companies.

How to become a Air Taxi pilot? 

To become an air taxi pilot, individuals typically need to complete specific training and certification requirements. The training process involves several steps and qualifications, including the following:

Private Pilot License (PPL): The starting point for becoming a pilot is to enroll in a well-rated pilot academy course and acquire a Private Pilot License (PPL).

Commercial Pilot License (CPL): To fly an air taxi, individuals need to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), which involves passing a medical exam and obtaining a first-class medical certificate.

Additional Ratings and Certifications: Some air taxi companies may require additional qualifications, such as proficiency in technical English, previous flight experience, specific certifications related to the aircraft, and jet training if intending to fly jets.

Twin-Engine Aircraft Operation Course: It might be recommended to take a separate course regarding the operation of twin-engine aircraft, which can lead to an extra rating along with the main Commercial Pilot’s certification.

Instrument Navigation and Communication: Pilots need to demonstrate proficiency in instrument navigation and communication, which is typically evaluated by an examiner.

Higher Education and Ongoing Training: Some of the best companies might also require higher education and ongoing training to ensure that pilots are well-prepared for the responsibilities of flying air taxis.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed comprehensive training and pilot certification rules for flying taxis, and the training and certification requirements are expected to conform to International Civil Aviation Organization standards, enabling U.S. pilots to operate in other countries