09 - Air Transport System Efficiency
URBAN AIR TRANSPORTATION JOURNEY TIME COMPARISON FOR MELBOURNE METROPOLITAN AREA
L. Swadesirč, C. Bilč; čRMIT University, Australia
Uber plans to begin testing its VTOL mobility system in Dallas in 2020, with plans for a commercial launch of the service in 2023. VTOL aircraft need little infrastructure, and can land at "vertiports" on the top of a parking garage without disturbing those nearby. This provides door-to-door trips when combined with its car service. The trials will help prove the safety of the system and allow people to get used to the idea of electric flying taxis. Once that happens, people will be treated to fast, safe, and efficient air travel, avoiding the congestion and the perils of the highway. Many aerospace companies are designing and developing all electric propulsion VTOL aircraft that are low-noise and no emissions, eg. Airbus and Westland. Initial operations will be using piloted aircraft. The question is if this type of business is viable in Australia, e.g. in greater Melbourne. This will depend on typical flying distances, number of passengers, suitable landing sites and, of course, cost.