Future of Air Taxis in New York
According to a UK tech company, Jetsons-inspired “air taxis” might be a reality for New Yorkers by the decade’s end.
Vertical Aerospace recently showcased its innovative Valo aircraft during an event in Manhattan. This four-seat electric vehicle is designed to travel up to 160 miles at speeds of 150 miles per hour, and it stands out due to its zero-emissions design.
CEO Stuart Simpson expressed concerns about current mass transit systems, stating that they’re no longer adequate. He likened the aircraft to the flying vehicles seen in the 1960s cartoon “The Jetsons” and has plans for FAA and British regulatory certification by 2028, aiming for short flights like those from JFK to downtown Manhattan.
“This method of transport could save countless hours, allowing people to be with family and friends rather than stuck in traffic,” he mentioned.
Simpson indicated that air taxi routes, set to be determined by tourism and other service companies, will harness green energy to significantly reduce travel times to locations like airports and stadiums. For instance, what currently takes an hour by train from JFK to Manhattan could be slashed to just seven minutes without emissions.
Additionally, a hybrid version of this flying electric vehicle can accommodate six passengers and offers a travel range of about 1,000 miles.
Vertical is eyeing routes connecting downtown with MetLife Stadium via Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, as well as between Long Island and various Manhattan helipads.
There are also thoughts around using the Valo for luxury air tourism and emergency medical transport in the New York area. However, pricing for this luxurious leather interior vehicle remains unclear.
The Valo is set for its debut in London before making its way to New York in 2028, with Vertical aiming to produce around 1,000 aircraft each year by 2035 for major urban locations.
The company has reportedly already secured roughly 1,500 pre-orders from significant clients, including American Airlines and Japan Airlines.
Simpson noted that the Valo operates quieter than conventional helicopters, addressing a concern that had led to recent city council initiatives aimed at restricting non-essential helicopter flights due to noise pollution.
A bill passed last year prohibits non-essential helicopter operations from certain areas unless they comply with strict noise regulations by 2029, following a tragic accident involving a tourist helicopter.
In the New York City area, short-haul air travel is already available through services like Blade, which was recently acquired by Joby Aviation in anticipation of introducing electric air taxis.
Blade is currently advertising a $95 “commuter” helicopter ride, with a $195 fare from JFK to Manhattan, and interest in helicopter commuting has surged. They even introduced 12-minute flights between Manhattan and Westchester County last November.
Joby is actively pursuing FAA certification as well, having initiated the development of its electric vehicle and beginning type inspection flight testing this year.
Simpson highlighted the Valo’s design, which includes WiFi and ample legroom, stating that it aims to resolve issues associated with helicopters, such as noise and safety concerns.
Operating costs for electric vehicles are also significantly lower, with maintenance averaging $2 per seat per mile and taking less than a minute per flight hour according to company executives.
Vertical’s air taxis will be designed to run with zero emissions, adhering to stringent safety standards comparable to those of airliners. Simpson projected a very low failure rate due to their regulatory compliance, emphasizing the aircraft’s streamlined design.
