Flying taxis could be a reality as soon as 2028 in the UK, the government announced today.
In collaboration with industry, the UK Department for Transport (DfT) has launched the Future of Flight Action Plan, which sets out a roadmap for drones and novel electric aircraft.
According to the DfT, the action plan details how technology once confined to the realms of sci-fi could “transform” the skies, with studies estimating drone technology could boost the UK economy by £45bn by the end of the decade.
The plan aims to see the first piloted flying taxi in the air by 2026, and regular services as soon as 2028.
By 2030, it is hoped demos for autonomous, pilotless taxis will be well on their way to “transforming how people and goods are transported”.
Anthony Browne, the UK’s aviation and technology minister, said: “Cutting-edge battery technology will revolutionise transport as we know it.
“This plan will make sure we have the infrastructure and regulation in place to make it a reality.
“From flying taxis to emergency service drones, we’re making sure the UK is at the forefront of this dramatic shift in transportation – improving people’s lives and boosting the economy.”
The plan was unveiled on the same day the minister is due to visit Vertical Aerospace in Bristol – one of the UK companies manufacturing flying taxis.
These greener, quieter flying taxis are already undergoing the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)’s authorisation process and have been made possible thanks to rapid advances in battery technology, meaning they are light enough to stay in the air and powerful enough to cover the distances needed.
Under the plan, smaller aerodromes will also be supported by setting out how they can operate as vertiports for eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft.
Reviews of existing infrastructure will take place, as well as the development of certification standards for vertiports.
Duncan Walker, chief executive of Skyports and chairman of the Future of Flight Industry Group (FFIG), said: “The UK is home to one of the world’s most important aerospace industries and is in an ideal position to be a pioneer in the next era of aviation.
“The government and industry have a joint commitment to support the development, industrialisation and introduction of new aviation technologies.
“Continued collaboration will ensure that we capitalise on the significant domestic and international market opportunities presented by the future of flight.”
Sophie O’Sullivan, head of future safety and innovation at the UK CAA, added: “Aviation stands on the cusp of its next, potentially biggest, revolution since the invention of the jet engine.
“Drones, eVTOL, and other different vehicles have the potential to change transportation options forever.”