What are air taxis?
Air taxis, simply put, are like regular taxis, except these are small, electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft similar to helicopters(with greater efficiency and less noise), which will be able to transport people quickly across short distances in urban areas. Unlike helicopters, air taxis fly like fixed wing aircraft. Since Air taxis are designed to take off and land vertically, they do not need long runways like normal aircraft. The endeavor is also to make them autonomous, meaning they will not need human pilots. Hence, they are a groundbreaking innovation in urban mobility.
Why Air Taxis?
The need for air taxis arose mostly because of traffic congestion in urban areas and the need for faster and more convenient travel. Air taxis are also eco-friendly, making them a far more environment friendly option than their traditional counterparts and they can connect areas which would not be easily accessible by traditional transport.
By 2029, the air-taxi market is predicted to grow to $80.3bn from the $4.9bn that it was worth last year, according to Spherical Insights, a market research firm.
Which countries will be launching Air Taxis in the near future?
Dubai, the capital of United Arab Emirates,has taken the lead in this technology. Testing is being carried out and the taxis are expected to be operational shortly. Companies like Joby Aviation and Archer in the United States are working on prototypes and it is believed that the first launches will be in Los Angeles and Miami. China has conducted test flights, and may also launch very soon in the near future. In Europe, several companies are testing electric taxis in Germany and France.The UK aims to have the first air taxis within two years. Similarly, in India, we can expect to see these operational by 2026.Sarla Aviation plans to launch electric flying taxis in Bengaluru to reduce travel time and vehicular pollution. The service aims to connect Bengaluru Airport with Electronics City, cutting travel time from three hours to 19 minutes.
Parallels in Hindu Mythology
Hindu mythology has many references to aerial vehicles similar to Air Taxis. The concept of Dharma (righteous duty) of ancient Hinduism emphasizes living in harmony with the environment and of balance with Nature; both of which are key aspects of the thrust towards air taxi travel.
The ability of air taxis to ascend and descend vertically can be compared to the stories of Vimanasin Hindu mythology, flying chariots or vehicles that defied gravity and could similarly ascend and descend vertically. The autonomous flight or pilotless feature of air taxis finds a parallel in Lord Vishnu’s Garuda (a divine bird) or Lord Shiva’s Nandi (his bull), where divine will alone directed their movement. Hindu cosmology and mythology often describe celestial cities and realms that exist above the Earth. For example, the city of Amaravati is the divine city of Lord Indra, situated in the heavens. The idea of skyports and flying vehicles in modern cities evokes imagery of suchdivine and futuristic realms on earth.
Features of Air Taxis in Dubai
At the start of its operations, Dubai’s air taxis will run from four vertiports: Dubai International Airport (DXB), Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Downtown.The capacity will be four passengers and a pilot, although autonomous flights are expected eventually. The air taxis will be able to reach speeds of 320 km/hr. This would translate into a travel time of only ten or twelve minutes fromDubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah, which normally takes 45 minutes by road.A single battery charge would be good for about 100 miles and rides are expected to cost around 350 dirhams (about £75) per person.
The launch of air taxis in Dubai is much more than an effort to ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time, and promote green and sustainable solutions. It is a part of Dubai’s global vision to project itself as a leader in innovation and futuristic technology.
Possible challenges with Air Taxis
Although the air-taxi market is predicted to grow exponentially by the end of the decade, its success and future depends on integrating a well-planned network of Vertiports with the existing infrastructure, along with advanced air traffic management systems.As this technology expands, there would also be a gradual introduction of other flying vehicles like air ambulances. Managing all this new urban air traffic might be a considerable challenge.
