Skyportz, Contreras Earl Architecture, and Pascall+Watson Architects have announced their concept for an Australian waterfront e-mobility hub. This concept, set to debut at the World Air Taxi Congress in San Francisco, envisions the transformation of an existing heliport on Melbourne’s Yarra River into a state-of-the-art vertiport. The availability of vertiports on the water will pave the way for the integration of clean, quiet, electric air taxis.

The proposal goes beyond air taxis and aims to create a comprehensive multi-modal hub. Electric scooters, bikes, ferries, and hire boats will converge at this hub, providing added connectivity for travelers. A cafe will further enhance the hub’s appeal, offering spectators a front-row view of the aerial action.

Skyportz CEO, Clem Newton-Brown, emphasized the significance of waterfront locations for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) development. He stated, “Waterfront sites provide the safest access for electric air taxis, with clear approach and departure paths, meeting aviation requirements. Additionally, waterfront areas offer the space needed for terminals and even floating landing pads.”

This concept aligns with international trends, such as Paris’s decision to place its new vertiport on the river. Newton-Brown believes that waterfront locations will be the preferred choice when cities decide on vertiport sites.

Rafael Contreras, Director of Contreras Earl Architecture, described the vertiport as a “landmark building” that prioritizes sustainability, lightweight construction, and an exceptional user experience. The vertiport’s high-performance roof, designed with an aluminum monocoque structure, embodies these principles, highlighting Melbourne’s progressive stance with two designed vertiports in the city.

Martin Neilan, Aviation Director at Pascall+Watson Architects, sees the Melbourne Vertiport as a pivotal project that aligns with the city’s Greenline Masterplan. It promises zero-pollution, rapid transport, and improved pedestrian access along the Yarra River.

Newton-Brown underscored the importance of breaking the aviation-airport nexus in fostering AAM growth. He emphasized the need for a network of new vertiport sites, with waterfront locations holding immense potential.

Why it’s important: In unveiling this concept, Skyportz, Contreras Earl Architecture, and Pascall+Watson Architects are reflecting the growing trend of creative use of city space for vertiports and aerial mobility infrastructure, taking advantage of space that is less used in certain areas and that also allows for more flexibility in operations, including multi-modal transport mediums at the convergence of land and water based hubs.

The future of drone operations in Australia received a considerable boost as Skyports Drone Services, a global leader in drone operations, announced last week that they’ve joined forces with Australian drone manufacturer Carbonix. This partnership is set to advance beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations across the country, leveraging cutting-edge long-range vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft technology.

In the initial phase of this collaboration, Skyports Drone Services will integrate experienced drone pilots into Carbonix’s operations. These pilots will provide Carbonix with invaluable flight experience while conducting routine data acquisition missions for the energy infrastructure and mining sectors. The goal is to enhance Carbonix’s drone systems and operational protocols, paving the way for formidable BVLOS capability.

Skyports Drone Services, with a presence spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East, brings considerable expertise to this venture. The company specializes in offering logistical, surveying, and monitoring services to a diverse clientele, including healthcare providers, cargo and delivery companies, shipping firms, and energy producers. The collaboration with Carbonix represents Skyports Drone Services’ inaugural commercial project in Australia.

With Skyports Drone Services’ pool of skilled pilots and experience, Carbonix is poised to deliver scalable uncrewed aerial data acquisition services to Australian businesses aiming to modernize infrastructure inspections.

Carbonix CEO, Philip van der Burg, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to partner with an experienced and reputable global operator. Skyports Drone Services fills a crucial niche with their scalable VTOL UAVs and operational know-how. We anticipate their pilots will augment our BVLOS capabilities, fostering a lasting partnership rooted in knowledge and expertise exchange.”

For Skyports Drone Services, this collaboration accelerates their BVLOS operations in the region, positioning them to meet potential growing demand in the local UAV market. According to Skyports Drone Services Director, Alex Brown, “Our role extends beyond flying; we lead in regulation, compliance, safety management, airspace management, and stakeholder coordination. Our partnership with Carbonix will harness this knowledge to bolster operational capabilities and facilitate the expansion of infrastructure inspection services. Demonstrating the safety of drone operations is pivotal to the long-term growth of the industry, and we are eager to share our operational wisdom to support Carbonix and promote the adoption of drone technology.”

The partnership’s success will soon be evident as Skyports Drone Services has already assisted Carbonix in over 85 long-range missions, covering more than 1,500 kilometers across Australia. These missions have included inspections of critical power infrastructure, vegetation encroachment, and asset management for organizations like Hitachi Vintara, Charles Darwin University, Endeavour Energy, TransGrid, EVO Energy, South Australian Power Networks, and Ausgrid.

Why it’s important: This partnership aims to establish a world-class operator training program to nurture local talent, which will be pivotal to scaling up long-distance drone operations in Australia. As the synergy between Skyports Drone Services and Carbonix continues to grow, the future of aerial mobility in Australia and advanced drone operations gains a larger base, promising increased efficiency and innovation across various industries.

Lilium, the company pioneering the eVTOL Lilium Jet, has marked a significant achievement in its development journey with the initiation of fuselage assembly for the Lilium Jet.

The company remains firmly on schedule for its inaugural manned flight, anticipated in late 2024. This milestone underscores Lilium’s capability to progress from concept to realization, as outlined in its strategic plan. The initial fuselage assembly represents a pivotal step toward obtaining type-certification for the Lilium Jet, with seven fuselages slated for use in the certification process. This first fuselage is planned for delivery to Lilium facilities in Wessling, Germany in the fourth quarter 2023, prior to planned start of assembly of the first Lilium Jet by year end.

Yves Yemsi, COO of Lilium said: “We’re delighted to kick off assembly of the first Lilium Jet fuselage at Aciturri, bringing us one step closer to reshaping sustainable regional air mobility. We see this as further evidence that our approach of teaming with proven aerospace suppliers to bring our cutting edge eVTOL aircraft to market is the optimal strategy as we advance along a path to certification and entry into service of the Lilium Jet.”

Lilium’s progress is underscored by its strategic partnership with Aciturri, aerospace supplier with nearly half a century of experience in commercial aircraft programs, including work on Airbus and Boeing projects. Aciturri is actively involved in the development and production of the Lilium Jet’s fuselage at its facilities in Valladolid, Spain. Beyond industrialization, Aciturri will continue to support the design optimization and certification of the Lilium Jet, aligning with Europe’s climate neutrality goals.

Why it’s important: The start of fuselage assembly, taking place at Aciturri’s facilities in Valladolid, Spain, symbolizes Lilium’s commitment to advancing sustainable regional air mobility. The company’s approach of partnering with proven aerospace suppliers has proven successful, while Lilium also maintains its ambitious timeline, with the fuselage slated for delivery to Lilium’s facilities in Wessling, Germany, by the fourth quarter of 2023.

Related:

• Lilium’s Upsized $192M Financing and Class A Shares Offering
• Lilium Achieves G-1 Certification Basis From FAA

Cyclorotor unveiled footage of the first flight of their Bumblebee2.0 concept with an Enhanced Propulsion system last week. The flight occurred at the end of August, 2023. This aircraft showcases a unique configuration, featuring four CR42 CycloRotors and an advanced flight control system. The launch of the outdoor flight campaign marks progress toward development of CYCLOROTOR’s unique aviation propulsion system.

The flight demonstration took place at a general aviation airport in Austria. CYCLOROTOR shares that their outdoor flight operations adhere to all applicable regulations set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), operating under the UAS operational authorization for the “specific” category.

Over the coming months, Cyclorotor plans to demonstrate the capabilities of its 360° thrust vectoring CycloRotors. These innovative propulsion units are based off of a design that’s over 100 years old and can challenge traditional aerial mobility industry aircraft configurations. However, not all are in agreement of the level of enhanced maneuverability, stability, and efficiency in flight offered by this unique configuration. CYCLOROTOR aims to systematically expand the flight envelope, further exploring and collecting data on the performance of their unique aircraft design.

While the debut of Bumblebee2.0 represents a unique application of a novel propulsion and lifting concept that is over a century old, it is important to note that this novel configuration may only partially permeate into limited applications in the drone industry. As with any unique configuration, widespread adoption often requires time and industry-wide acceptance in addition to successful, demonstrated performance.

Why it’s important: CYCLOROTOR has invited aviation enthusiasts, industry stakeholders, and the public to stay tuned for more updates as they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of aerial mobility. While their novel configuration is still not proven for widespread application, the team is making strides toward advancement of a unique type of aircraft and collecting data that can be used to improve future variants.

VoltAero has achieved a significant milestone by conducting a flight using its proprietary electric-hybrid powertrain, fueled entirely by sustainable bioethanol from TotalEnergies. The landmark event took place at VoltAero’s development facility in Royan, France, and represents a giant stride towards greener and more sustainable aviation.

The successful flight test utilized VoltAero’s Cassio S testbed airplane, serving as a crucial validation step for both the electric-hybrid powertrain and the use of sustainable fuels. This accomplishment plays a pivotal role in de-risking the airworthiness certification process for forthcoming production models within the Cassio aircraft family.

Jean Botti, CEO and Chief Technology Officer of VoltAero noted that “based on initial results, we calculated a truly impressive CO2 reduction of approximately 80 percent while operating the Cassio powertrain in its electric-hybrid mode and with the internal combustion engine fueled by TotalEnergies’ Excellium Racing 100.” This development highlights the potential of Cassio aircraft to contribute significantly to the aviation industry’s decarbonization goals by replacing conventional Avgas 100 high-octane fuel.

The collaboration between VoltAero and TotalEnergies reflects a step toward the broader adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in general aviation. Excellium Racing 100, derived from winemaking waste, has demonstrated its environmental benefits in automobile competitions and features a 65% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to its fossil fuel counterparts over its life cycle.

Joël Navaron, President of TotalEnergies Aviation, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting aviation’s decarbonization objectives. TotalEnergies has initiated various actions, including the installation of electric charging stations for general aviation aircraft and a pilot program aimed at offering SP98-type fuel for compatible aircraft.

The Cassio family of aircraft, integrated with VoltAero’s patented electric-hybrid propulsion system, promises to revolutionize regional commercial operations, air taxi services, private ownership, and utility applications like cargo transport and medical evacuation (Medevac). With its unique hybrid propulsion system, Cassio delivers higher performance and significantly reduced operational costs.

Why it’s important: VoltAero’s latest achievement is desired by those in aerospace to become a more common occurrence in the next chapter of aviation, taking aerial mobility one step closer to more environmentally friendly outcomes. While the current supply of sustainable aviation fuel does not yet support full deployment of flights using SAF, compatibility with sustainable aviation fuels is crucial for future regional mobility aircraft designs.

The FAA has authorized Zipline International, Inc. to deliver commercial packages around Salt Lake City and Bentonville, Arkansas using drones that fly beyond the operator’s visual line of sight (BVLOS).

Part 135 operator Zipline uses its Sparrow drone to drop cargo packages via parachute and this FAA approval will enable the longest range drone delivery flights that the United States has ever seen. Data collected from these operations will inform the FAA’s ongoing policy and rulemaking activities. 

“Today we use 4,000 pound gas combustion vehicles driven by humans to do billions of deliveries across the country. It’s expensive, slow and bad for the environment. This decision means that we can start to transition delivery to solutions that are 10x as fast, less expensive, and zero emission,” said Keller Rinaudo Cliffton, CEO and co-founder of Zipline. “It means that Zipline hubs across the country can now go from serving a few thousand homes to serving hundreds of thousands of homes each year and millions of people, which will save time, money and even lives.” 

Related: NASA Signs Space Act Agreement with Zipline

Okeoma Moronu, Zipline’s head of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs, said: “We applaud the FAA for taking a major step to integrate autonomous drone delivery into the airspace. This will enable more commerce, new economic opportunities and greater access for millions of Americans. The FAA has incredibly high safety standards and it’s a testament to the entire Zipline team that our delivery drones are entrusted to fly and deliver at scale, over populated areas, in the most complex airspace in the world.” 

Meanwhile, The FAA is focused on developing standard rules to make BVLOS operations routine, scalable and economically viable. The agency chartered the Beyond Visual Line of Sight Aviation Rulemaking Committee on June 9, 2021 to provide safety recommendations to the FAA. The FAA’s long-term goal is to safely integrate drones into the National Airspace System rather than set aside separate airspace exclusively for drones.

Why it’s important:

The FAA’s role in enabling BVLOS operations is pivotal to the future of not only small-scale drone delivery operations, but also passenger urban air mobility. By embracing and regulating this technology, the FAA is paving the way for safer, more efficient, and sustainable urban transportation. The benefits are clear: improved safety, reduced congestion, economic growth, greater accessibility, and a leading position on the global stage.

As we look to the future, it is evident that BVLOS operations are not just a regulatory necessity but a key enabler for the realization of UAM’s potential, promising a brighter and more connected urban landscape for generations to come. While some eVTOL aerial mobility manufacturers and operators are currently pursuing onboard pilot aircraft configurations, it’s inevitable that future variants will converge on mostly autonomous or remotely-piloted operation.

Innovation is soaring to new heights in aerial mobility, and recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are challenging the ways traditional methods of flight path monitoring. While there is the potential to significantly enhance safety and efficiency in our increasingly crowded skies, there are also challenges related to how cutting-edge AI technologies can be safely and responsibly applied to new aircraft.

The Challenge of Aerial Mobility

Aerial mobility continues to make inroads on the path to widespread certification and utilization of aircraft to decongest urban areas and more efficiently transport passengers the last 50nm of their trips. With the rapid growth of drones, air taxis, and autonomous aircraft, cities around the world are embracing the potential for faster, cleaner, and more efficient transportation. However, this comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in managing and coordinating the movement of numerous airborne vehicles in urban environments.

AI-Powered Predictive Flight Path Monitoring

AI-driven predictive flight path monitoring has a potential to be a game-changer in this space, but with serious complications if implementation isn’t nearly flawless. AI algorithms, empowered by deep learning and real-time data analysis, enable aerial mobility systems to anticipate and adapt to changing conditions. A potential rosy future could include:

1. Collision Avoidance: AI algorithms can predict potential conflicts between aerial vehicles and suggest alternative routes to avoid collisions. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of accidents, making urban air travel safer for everyone.
2. Weather Forecasting: AI can process vast amounts of weather data in real-time, allowing aircraft to adjust their routes to avoid turbulence, storms, or adverse conditions. This not only enhances safety but also ensures smoother and more comfortable rides for passengers.
3. Traffic Management: AI-powered traffic management systems can dynamically allocate airspace and landing zones, optimizing routes to minimize congestion and delays. This promotes efficient use of airspace, reducing travel times and environmental impact.
4. Predictive Maintenance: AI can predict maintenance needs for aerial vehicles by analyzing sensor data. This preemptive approach ensures that aircraft are in optimal condition, reducing the risk of in-flight mechanical failures.

While the above list of advances sounds incredibly convenient, it also reflects what many sight as an idyllic view of AI’s implementation in aerial mobility. There are numerous challenges to face, including sporadic, erratic flight paths from other aircraft, regulatory integration and certification, as well as ethical and privacy concerns, especially for those not wanting the data from their flights to be shared for privacy reasons. Finally, the methods by which these algorithms are trained must be ironclad, and evasive actions cannot also be prescribed in situations where immediate intervention is necessary.

As many OEMs adopt hybridized approaches to their powertrains, leveraging the best of both internal combustion and battery technology, a similar approach is likely warranted for the most successful of the aerial mobility aircraft: provisioned for future growth with capabilities that can eventually be fully autonomous, but with the option for remote or in-aircraft piloting to occur to assuage passenger concerns and to meet current regulatory requirements.

Why it’s important: As AI continues to evolve, the future of aerial mobility may evolve to leverage this technology as well. AI-driven predictive flight path monitoring may enhance safety but also paves the way for increased automation and autonomy in air travel, if implemented gradually and successful. The runway to AI integration into aviation is a long one, but slow incremental steps will yield benefit.

In a new collaboration, Skyports Drone Services, a drone logistics, survey, and monitoring operations company, has teamed up with Norwegian energy company Equinor to lead a new project in the aerial mobility sector. This partnership aims to improve cargo logistics for offshore oil installations in the North Sea, setting a new standard for efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

The project, which commenced in early September, is the first-ever daily, on-demand drone delivery service initiated from shore to offshore oil rigs and uses highly automated cargo drones developed by Swoop Aero. The drones can cover distances of up to 114 kilometers and are currently shuttling cargo between Equinor’s Mongstad processing center on the west coast of Norway and three installations in the Gullfaks oil field.

Skyports Drone Services has conducted numerous flights with hundreds more planned throughout the two-month trial. These flights are transporting a diverse range of cargo; from spare parts and equipment to care packages, showcasing the versatility of drone logistics.

One of the most notable advantages of uncrewed drone services is their cost-efficiency, speed of deployment, and enhanced safety compared to traditional transportation methods. These drones can operate in challenging visibility conditions, including fog, pending regulatory approvals – a development that holds immense promise for the aerial mobility industry.

Moreover, the environmental benefits of electric drones is an important consideration for this operation as well. With zero operating emissions, they are a profound leap toward sustainability in the offshore sector.

The trial also highlights the potential for scaling drone services with minimal human intervention. Remote piloting by a small Skyports Drone Services team from Equinor’s ROC in Bergen ensures seamless operations. Equinor staff on the installations have received training to handle cargo, batteries, and drone interactions, underlining the adaptability of the system.

Initial results of the trial have been positive, paving the way for potential expansion to additional installations, thus shaping the future of aerial mobility in the offshore energy sector.

Alex Brown, Director of Skyports Drone Services, emphasized the project’s significance: “This project with Equinor proves that drone delivery can offer a safer, cost-effective, more sustainable alternative to conventional transport methods in offshore environments. We are currently exploring how we can expand this groundbreaking work into adjacent sectors such as offshore wind and ship resupply.”

The project’s success has been made possible through collaboration with Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway, ensuring the necessary flight permissions are secured.

Why it’s important: The partnership between Skyports Drone Services and Equinor signifies a turning point in the aerial mobility industry. The collaboration showcases how electric drones can revolutionize cargo logistics, bringing new levels of efficiency, safety, and sustainability to offshore operations. As the trial continues to flourish, it opens doors for further innovation and exploration of aerial mobility solutions in adjacent sectors, ultimately helping to shape the future of logistics in challenging environments.

The United States Department of Defense (DoD) has entered into an expansive partnership with BETA Technologies to install the first ever electric aircraft charging station at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.

Initiated in 2020, this partnership has been instrumental in expediting the adoption of electric aviation within both the United States military and the broader commercial aviation sector. An illustrious milestone in this journey saw BETA Technologies being recognized as the foremost electric aircraft developer to secure an airworthiness certificate for manned flight from the military. Furthermore, they have conducted the sole piloted qualitative evaluation flights, featuring esteemed test pilots from the United States Air Force and Army.

This partnership, dedicated to evaluating the feasible mission capabilities and broad applicability of BETA’s electric aircraft and chargers, is set to persist with the forthcoming introduction of BETA’s ALIA aircraft to Eglin Air Force Base this autumn. Notably, BETA’s versatile and intermodal electric charger has demonstrated the remarkable capacity to recharge an electric aircraft in under an hour.

BETA originally was in pursuit of developing its eVTOL aircraft version, but recently decided to also certify a CTOL version, Alia, which will be delivered to Elgin Air Force Base. Meanwhile other eVTOL companies including Joby and Archer have also committed to delivering their respective air taxis to other Air Force bases near the end of 2023 or early 2024.

Related:

• UPS and BETA Technologies to test UAE electric flight deliveries
• Beta Technologies to Enhance Focus on Electric Aircraft Certification

Bearing conformity to the established standards jointly agreed upon by a substantial segment of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry, as delineated in the recent ‘Interoperability of Electric Charging Infrastructure’ whitepaper by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), BETA’s chargers exhibit the versatility to support an array of electric aircraft while also accommodating ground electric vehicles.

“The DoD, and specifically AFWERX’s Agility Prime team, have been invaluable partners to us for the past several years, offering deep insights that have helped us continue to progress our technology,” said Beta founder and CEO Kyle Clark. “The installation of this charger is an enabling step as the DOD looks to transition to a more sustainable fleet. We look forward to using it to charge our aircraft later this year during planned on-base experimentation with the Air Force at Duke Airfield.”

“Charging station installation is a critical step to unleash test and experimentation with the DoD to leverage emerging electric aviation technology as a capability for the warfighter,” said Maj Anthony Zartman, Agility Prime’s program manager and team lead. “Two charging test sites will be set up by the end of the calendar year, marking the first multimodal charging capabilities for the Air Force. Further, the charging stations will provide an opportunity to explore the utility of electric vehicle fleet modernization as well as base and flight line support equipment to improve energy use and reduce emissions.”

Why it’s important: This pioneering Level 3 DC fast-charging facility is poised to provide essential support for on-site electric vehicle experimentation, signifying the latest advancement in the enduring collaboration between BETA Technologies and the DoD through its esteemed AFWERX Agility Prime Program.

Bristow Group Inc, a global leader in vertical flight solutions, and Volocopter have embarked on a collaboration that sets the stage for passenger and cargo services utilizing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the U.S. and U.K.

The partnership was announced last week and includes Bristow’s firm order for two VoloCity aircraft, with an option for an additional 78, once certified. Together, Volocopter and Bristow are poised to build a robust UAM ecosystem, encompassing regulatory discussions, infrastructure development, and local partnerships.

The scope of their joint development agreement is broad: covering commercial, operational, and eVTOL aircraft maintenance services. This includes adapting Volocopter’s proprietary digital platform, VoloIQ, to ensure the efficiency of Bristow’s future operations.

The eVTOL sector is rapidly evolving, driven by its emission-free flights and ultra-low noise signatures. With the VoloCity joining Bristow’s fleet, there are undoubtedly an array of new urban routes and service possibilities under study.

Volocopter aims to secure final certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in 2024, with FAA certification in the U.S. following shortly thereafter, potentially opening doors for commercial UAM services.

Dave Stepanek, Bristow’s Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, expressed his excitement, saying, “Launching this collaborative effort with Volocopter marks a major milestone in Bristow’s effort to usher in a new era of vertical transportation solutions.” He further highlighted Volocopter’s pragmatic approach to certification and innovative aircraft design.

Christian Bauer, CFO & CCO of Volocopter, emphasized the significance of this partnership, given Bristow’s vast experience in bringing new aircraft into service. Bauer stated, “Our partnership with Bristow and the firm VoloCity orders received propels us forward as we unlock new markets.”

Why it’s important: With more than 500 pre-orders, including nearly 30 firm orders from partners, Volocopter is forging a path toward a more accessible and sustainable aviation future. Together with Bristow, Volocopter is moving forward to an ultimate goal of wide access to the benefits of aviation, where flying becomes not just a dream but a reality for people across the globe. In this bold venture, innovation and experience unite, promising a future where UAM services revolutionize the way we travel, connect, and experience the world.

In a significant stride towards enhancing the safety and efficiency of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operations, Iris Automation and uAvionix have unveiled a strategic partnership aimed at revolutionizing Command and Control (C2) and Detect and Avoid (DAA) services for the aerial mobility industry. The collaboration will feature Iris Automation’s ground-based collision avoidance data, the Casia G, integrated into uAvionix’s SkyLine services, delivering unparalleled airspace awareness and connectivity for small UAS.

One of the critical challenges in the skies today lies in distinguishing between cooperative aircraft, which share their positional data through technologies like ADS-B, and non-cooperative aircraft that do not. uAvionix has emerged as a leader in cooperative aircraft detection, leveraging ADS-B IN solutions for UAS. Now, with the added capabilities of Iris Automation’s Casia G, operators will have a holistic solution for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.

The Casia G system, powered by advanced computer vision and artificial intelligence, swiftly detects and classifies intruder aircraft, offering vital response time to ensure safety. This ground-based variant provides expansive coverage, ensuring scalable coverage through strategically deployed nodes. By fusing the data produced by Casia G with ADS-B data from uAvionix, operators will enjoy comprehensive situational awareness, going beyond what single-sensor-based systems can provide.

Christian Ramsey, Managing Director of uAvionix uncrewed Systems, characterized the partnership, stating “Integration of the Iris’ Casia G data is another step toward enabling scalable and achievable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights for UAS operators.” With this combined solution, operators can confidently navigate the complexities of low-altitude airspace, mitigating the risk of incidents and near-mid-air collisions.

Jon Damush, CEO of Iris Automation, expressed excitement about the collaboration, noting that “operators will now have a turn-key solution for their BVLOS operations.” The partnership is actively progressing towards integrating Casia G data into the SkyLine service through field tests and operational scenarios. The resulting advanced airspace awareness and command and control capabilities are expected to become available to UAS operators later this year.

Why it’s important: As the aerial mobility industry continues to evolve, safety and efficiency remain paramount. The alliance between Iris Automation and uAvionix is poised to contribute significantly to the sector’s growth by providing operators with the tools they need to navigate the skies with confidence and reliability. It’s a pivotal step towards a future where aerial mobility is not just a dream but a safe and accessible reality.

AIRTAXI World Congress, an annual event hosted by Global Travel Investments, a UK-based marketing and strategy consultancy, will take place in San Francisco, CA this year from October 2-5.

Last year in Istanbul, the event gathered 133 companies from 35 unique countries. This year, the event will place a dedicated focus on operationalization of air taxis & new air services, and the highlight will be a live demo of multiple vertical take-off and landing aircraft at the 50 million pax airport on October 5.

“We are excited to be working together with San Francisco International Airport, FAA, Archer, Joby Aviation and Signature Flight Support on integration of eVTOLs into SFO’s operational system to make vertical demo flights a reality this October, paving the way for the future of air taxis and urban eVTOL!’’ said Rose Sokolova, Chief Operation Officer at Global Travel Investments.

The event will also include a static aircraft display, panel discussions with industry leaders, skills workshops, and dedicated networking opportunities. Event organizers say that more than 500 leaders and stakeholders from across the urban air mobility (UAM) industry are expected to attend, including investors, aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, and operators, as well as representatives from airports and governments. 

At least 275 companies will be represented at the event, including Archer, Beta Technologies, Ehang, Electra.aero, Eve, Joby, Lilium, Opener, Overair, Skydrive, Supernal, Volocopter, and Wisk.

AIRTAXI World Congress 2023, hosted by the San Francisco International Airport, is “the only event entirely dedicated to air taxis and urban eVTOLs.” It brings together not only suppliers and OEMs but also investors, operators, airlines, airports, vertiports, and urban infrastructure stakeholders for personalized, pre-arranged meetings. Registration for the event is open and the program can be found on the event website.

Why it’s important: “As 2025 rapidly approaches — the target date for most OEMs to certificate their aircraft — the focus is now shifting to the entry of air taxis into commercial airline service. The AIRTAXI World Congress will be the front and center of this change,” said Mike Howarth, chairman at Global Travel Investments. This event will be a spectacle for industry leaders and for future air taxi riders alike; it will demonstrate the progress many eVTOL developers are making on their aircraft and launching commercial operations with the 2025 target in mind.

In a groundbreaking event that offers a glimpse into the future of aviation, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, in collaboration with the Electric Flying Connection (EFC) and the E-Flight Academy, recently hosted a two-day experience of electric flying. The event provided 18 lucky guests with the opportunity to take a trial flying lesson aboard the Pipistrel Velis Electro, a certified two-seat electric aircraft. These flights operated between Lelystad Airport and Schiphol-Oost, offering valuable insights into electric flight logistics and the challenges it presents.

Jolanda Stevens, program manager for Zero Emission Aviation at KLM, emphasized the importance of testing new technologies in practice to make air transport more sustainable. She highlighted that the initiatives undertaken today could pave the way for scalable applications in the future.

Schiphol Airport was chosen as the starting point due to its status as KLM’s home base. The Pipistrel Velis Electro, while limited in range, presented a unique opportunity to explore the logistics and infrastructure required for electric flight. As electric aircraft need recharging, cooperation with airports and air traffic control is vital to ensure safe and efficient operations.

While the Pipistrel Velis Electro would never practically become a part of KLM’s route network, these trial flight lessons serve as an important stepping stone towards future electric aviation. Market experts predict that by 2035, larger electric aircraft capable of carrying 50 to 100 passengers with longer ranges will emerge. KLM’s commitment to researching various technologies, including electric, hydrogen, and hybrid propulsion, underscores its dedication to sustainable aviation.

KLM’s climate strategy is aligned with the journey towards Zero Emission Aviation. The airline recognizes the need for cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient operations, and KLM’s journey along this path means not only adopting new aircraft but also developing infrastructure, optimizing airspace usage, and enhancing operational efficiency. Collaboration across the aviation value chain is essential to overcoming the challenges and uncertainties associated with this transition.

The Electric Flying Connection (EFC) is a trade association with over 50 members from various segments of the electric flight ecosystem, plays a pivotal role in advancing the sustainability of air transport. By connecting airlines, aircraft manufacturers, flight academies, infrastructure developers, and more, EFC fosters collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of greener skies.

Why it’s important: KLM’s recent electric flying experience demonstrates the airline’s commitment to pioneering sustainable aviation solutions. As the industry progresses, initiatives like these will contribute to a more eco-friendly and efficient future for aerial mobility and increase awareness to the general public about the progress being made in the industry.

In a milestone for the drone industry, uAvionix anounced last week that in joint operation at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Emerging Aviation Technology Center, they’ve successfully completed the first Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight in non-segregated airspace using aviation-protected C-Band frequencies in the United States. Serving as the Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP), uAvionix has marked a significant leap forward for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operators and businesses looking to expand scalable UAS operations.

The BVLOS flight, made possible through uAvionix’s SkyLine software service, was the culmination of years of engineering, planning, and regulatory cooperation. This achievement is poised to improve industries such as medical and package delivery, linear utility inspection, and emergency management.

Paul Beard, uAvionix’s founder and CTO, discussed SkyLine software’s capabilities, which encompass link management and detect and avoid services across multiple frequencies and data inputs. It adheres to rigorous aviation safety and certification standards, allowing BVLOS flights without the need for chase vehicles or visual observers. Beard describes it as a “brilliant piece of engineering and operations.”

uAvionix recently secured FCC approval, in collaboration with the FAA, to operate both airborne and ground radio stations on C-Band during BVLOS flights. The SkyLine cloud-based software service, coupled with the SkyLink airborne and SkyStation ground-based radios, ensures uninterrupted communication over challenging terrains.

The BVLOS flight showcased uAvionix’s Super Volo aircraft and its innovative muLTELink5060 airborne radio, supported by four SkyLink5060 ground radios deployed across the expansive CNO UAS test site. The SkyLine system continuously monitored communication links between the ground stations and the aircraft, ensuring reliable command and control. Detect and avoid data from terrestrial sensors enhanced situational awareness for the Remote Pilot in Command.

James Grimley, Executive Director for the Choctaw Nation Oklahoma Emerging Aviation Technologies Center, recognizes uAvionix’s pioneering efforts, emphasizing their role in creating a technical and operational system that paves the way for safe UAS operations, benefiting both the economy and culture of their communities.

Why it’s important: uAvionix, driven by its mission to enhance aviation safety, has achieved a historic BVLOS flight and set the stage for future UAS and aerial mobility operations, all while adhering to aviation-grade standards and regulatory approval. This achievement marks a considerable step towards realizing the potential of drones and autonomous aerial systems in various critical applications.

In a significant leap towards modernizing last-mile logistics, retail giant Walmart has announced a strategic collaboration with Wing, an on-demand drone delivery provider backed by Alphabet, Google’s parent company. This partnership comes after two years of Walmart’s relentless pursuit of incorporating drone delivery into its services. The latest venture is set to introduce drone delivery capabilities from two Walmart stores in Dallas, catering to an additional 60,000 households.

Walmart’s unwavering commitment to pioneering innovative delivery solutions that are eco-friendly and forward-looking resonates seamlessly with Wing’s advanced drone technology. By integrating Wing’s drones, designed to operate beyond visual line of sight, Walmart will extend on-demand delivery to customers living within a 6-mile radius of the selected stores. The Walmart Supercenter at 8555 Preston Road in Frisco, Texas, will take the lead in inaugurating this transformative service.

The user experience promises to be both efficient and user-friendly. Prospective customers can swiftly determine their eligibility for drone delivery by downloading the Wing app, available on the App Store and Google Play. This technological stride will unlock an array of conveniences, from swift deliveries of essential household items to impromptu meal solutions like macaroni and cheese, and even delicate products like eggs, according to Walmart.

This strategic alliance between Walmart and Wing not only marks a turning point for both entities but also for the broader landscape of last-mile logistics. Walmart’s vast experience in customer-centric solutions pairs seamlessly with Wing’s cutting-edge drone capabilities. Together, they aim to redefine convenience in the realm of delivery services. As the collaboration takes flight, it is poised to inspire industry peers to embrace innovative strategies for enhancing customer satisfaction.

Related:

• Wing’s New Model for Metropolitan Drone Delivery
• Walmart Begins On-Demand Drone Delivery Program with Flytrex

Why it’s important: The fusion of Walmart’s commitment to innovation and Wing’s drone expertise ushers in a new era for elevated delivery solutions. By extending drone delivery services to the Dallas metro, Walmart continues to push boundaries and embrace emerging technologies to better serve its customers. As drones revolutionize the delivery ecosystem, Walmart and Wing stand at the forefront of this transformative journey, adding another dimension to the Supercenter’s last mile delivery.