Significant Regulatory Challenges for Air Taxi Operations, Says Bundestag Research

Recent findings from the Office of Technology Assessment at the Bundestag (TAB) indicate that air taxis are likely to serve primarily as niche offerings within premium markets in the future. This conclusion comes from a newly released short study focused on manned, fully electric, vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. While researchers anticipate an increase in the number of eVTOLs in operation, they caution that considerable challenges remain for the successful implementation of air taxi services.

The primary concerns highlighted in the analysis relate to regulatory issues, particularly regarding air safety and general aviation regulations. In Germany, this includes the requirement for designated landing and take-off sites. Furthermore, researchers stress the necessity of demonstrating economically viable operational and business models beyond mere prestige projects. Environmental considerations, such as noise pollution stemming from the advent of Urban Air Mobility (UAM), also require clarification.

Former Federal Minister of Transport Andreas Scheuer claimed back in 2018 that air taxis were no longer a vision but a reality. However, the recent backlash faced by his colleague Dorothee Bär over similar statements underscores the ongoing confusion surrounding regulatory frameworks. Key questions remain regarding suitable locations for take-offs and landings and the establishment of flight paths.

Progress on legislative matters has been slow since those early promises. Prominent local projects in the electric aircraft sector are currently struggling. For instance, Lilium recently filed for bankruptcy for the second time following an unsuccessful rescue attempt. Meanwhile, Volocopter was acquired by Chinese automotive supplier Wanfeng, helping the Bruchsal-based company avoid insolvency, yet approval for passenger operations continues to be delayed.

The TAB experts identify four critical areas where technological advancements are essential to move beyond the prototype phase and enhance the performance and reliability of eVTOL-based UAM systems. These areas include the development of automated systems for aircraft operation, improvements in electric propulsion technologies, mass production of lightweight components, and the establishment or modification of supporting infrastructures such as maintenance and service facilities.

To leverage the potential of automated flying vehicles for passenger transport, innovations in drone technology are vital. The report notes that the highest level of automation is being pursued for electric air taxis, with systems designed to manage all functions from take-off to landing. However, the complexities of fully automated flight necessitate the concurrent development and testing of pilot-controlled remote operation systems.

Globally, approximately 200 entities are reportedly engaged in the development of electric vertical take-off technology. This includes numerous startups, as well as 72% of the top 25 aircraft manufacturers and 64% of the leading 25 suppliers, all actively contributing to advancements in the field of advanced air mobility. Notable players in the German market include Airbus and Siemens, with Audi also exploring this emerging sector.

According to the study, the successful integration of autonomous air taxis into existing transportation frameworks will be crucial, particularly as feeders to airports. The ambition for UAM brings with it high demands for safety and operational control architecture. The researchers perceive air taxis as potentially significant contributors to the transportation transition, offering an attractive mobility alternative that could alleviate congestion in urban areas. However, they caution that a high demand for such services is not expected in the medium term, and market entry will significantly depend on economic factors.