The Axios's Joann Muller is reporting that eVTOLs are arriving in NYC and LA as soon as 2025.
Electric "air taxis" could soon be a part of the travel experience in New York and Los Angeles, as new Delta Air Lines terminals in these cities are considering the addition of "vertiports" for electric air taxi commuters. This move is in response to the challenges many travelers face while trying to reach the airport, especially in traffic-congested areas. Electric air taxis present an opportunity to swiftly transport customers to the airport, and they also provide a quieter travel experience when compared to traditional helicopters.
Flying taxis, once considered a distant reality, are expected to be operational within the next couple of years. Companies like Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, and Beta Technologies are on the brink of producing these vehicles, pending certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Joby and Delta, who have collaborated on this project, are in discussions with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to ensure a smooth travel experience. This involves the development of vertiports and the incorporation of quick charging equipment.
The proposed air taxi service, managed by Joby, is anticipated to start at New York's LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports and Los Angeles International Airport by 2025. This service will prioritize "premium" customers at first, but the ultimate goal is to expand the fleet and make the costs competitive with premium car services like Uber Black. Notably, the noise from these electric air taxis is substantially lower than traditional helicopters, providing a quieter environment for urban areas.
Nevertheless, there are still uncertainties surrounding the large-scale adoption of flying taxis. Their success will hinge on FAA approval, the production rate of these taxis, and their affordability for the average traveler.
Source: Axios
https://www.axios.com/2023/10/20/electric-air-taxis-delta-airlines-nyc-la
(This article was written with help from ChatGPT)
