Travel in urban centers could change significantly in the next few years. The FAA says air taxis will be a reality by 2025 with viable options for travelers by 2028. These taxis will most likely be battery powered so they can take off and land vertically. When powered by batteries, the taxis could only make quick trips, like from the city center to the airport. We won’t be flying cross country yet, but anywhere from two to six people may be sharing an air taxi to the airport soon.
The Major Players
Volocopter, a German company has plans to use their VoloCity flying taxi at the 2024 Paris Olympics to shuttle attendees around the city.
Joby Aviation already went public after announcing their air taxi service plans to launch in 2024. Joby Aviation also partnered with Uber to use their app to offer flying taxi rides. Boeing and Airbus are also developing flying taxis.
The Benefits of Flying Taxis
Since they are electric, the air taxis will have very low greenhouse gas emissions. They also are significantly less noisy than a helicopter. Commuters benefit from shorter trips where they can check their emails or just relax, which they couldn’t do if they were driving.
Cities that allow flying taxis can see a reduction in congestion. This will make it safer for pedestrians and bicycle riders. Also, motorways between cities and airports will see less traffic and a reduced need to add extra lanes to these roads.
Besides providing benefits to urban commuters, air taxis can help people in remote areas that would face a long, arduous journey over mountains to reach a hospital or other services.
Potential Challenges
Neighborhoods that would have infrastructure development to facilitate takeoffs and landings may face opposition by residents who worry about noise, safety, and more traffic on the city’s streets to reach the facility.
Public acceptance may also be a challenge as there may not be a pilot onboard after the initial operating period. The cost of the ride also can’t be so high that commuters won’t take a slower, but more affordable, alternative as opposed to a flying taxi.
Legal regulations may also be a challenge. California, which has been on the forefront of regulating autonomous taxis, has not yet passed legislation regulating flying taxis. Regulations will need to be in place for both manned vehicles and eventually autonomous flying vehicles.
Finding enough pilots trained to operate a flying taxi will also be a challenge. Few individuals will want to pay for expensive training when current aims are to have the taxis pilotless in the future.
It appears the Jetsons had the right idea, flying to reach their destinations.
