New Aircraft Could Revolutionize Bay Area Travel
test flight at TPA. Photo: TJ Waller/FMN
The advancement of urban mobility has taken a significant stride forward with Tampa International Airport’s landmark demonstration of the Volocopter electric air taxi. This flight test, representing the first of its kind at a major U.S. airport, heralds a potential paradigm shift in the transportation network within the Tampa Bay region.
On the leading edge of aeronautics technology, the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft, promises a novel solution for last-mile connectivity, envisaging a seamless transition from transportation hubs to local destinations. It could redefine the travel experience by offering direct routes from Tampa International Airport to targeted sites such as Anna Maria Island or Clearwater.
Tampa Airport Welcomes Volocopter
Joe Lopano, CEO of Tampa International Airport, emphasized the transformative potential of this new mobility avenue. He articulated a future where aerial vehicles navigate urban environments, circumventing ground traffic and thereby enhancing travel efficiency within city confines. Lopano also highlighted the anticipated environmental benefits, aligning with the airline industry’s shift towards sustainable practices.
The demonstration attracted local and state dignitaries, including Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch. Both acknowledged the critical role of innovative transport systems in fostering economic growth and addressing transportation challenges.
While initially purposed for short distances, the ambition is to lessen road traffic congestion. Brett Fay, Director of General Aviation at TPA, predicted a significant technological evolution within the coming decade, potentially realizing 200 daily operations.
Photo: TJ Waller /FMN
A German Built Air Taxi
Volocopter, the German aerospace company who manufactures the aircraft, conducted the urban air mobility (UAM) test flight. CEO Dirk Hoke recognized Tampa Bay’s embracement of pioneering technology and its favorable conditions for such cutting-edge developments.
The air taxi, powered by electricity and resembling a fusion between a drone and a helicopter, seats two passengers and boasts a propeller array. Hoke conveyed expectations of increased affordability and broader access as the service expands.
Volocopter CEO Dirk Hoke (L) and test pilot Olivier Renard discuss the aircraft’s performance with a dignitary. Photo: Mark Stone/ FMN
Officials anticipate commercial operations to commence in Paris by the 2024 Olympics, with Tampa International Airport expecting to launch flights around 2025-2026. Fay assured the adherence to FAA’s rigorous safety standards for future operations.
Following the successful test, Volocopter seeks FAA certification, having gathered crucial data on the test’s impact on air traffic. The commercial model is expected to initially cover 12 miles, with aims to extend inter-city services subsequently.
The cost per passenger mile is projected to start at approximately $3.00, with a long-term goal of reducing it to $1.00 per mile for autonomous flights. The Volocopter’s economical operation is credited to its all-electric design and a multicopter configuration that necessitates minimal maintenance.
The company is actively testing the piloted version of the Volocopter at its headquarters and is progressing in trials for a fully autonomous model. In parallel, development is underway for a heavy-lift cargo drone, named the Volodrone.
Despite regulatory and technological challenges, particularly with battery technology, the test represents a foundational step towards an innovative transportation alternative.
