Boeing has unveiled its strategic move to seek certification for its self-flying autonomous air taxis. The company is planning to venture into the Asian market within the coming decade.The company’s CTO, Todd Citron, revealed plans to collaborate with its subsidiary, Wisk Aero. Boeing had previously invested $540 million in Wisk Aero. The company is a pioneer in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology.
Wisk Aero’s latest eVTOL aircraft boasts impressive features such as autonomous operation, all-electric propulsion, and the capacity to carry four passengers. With a wingspan of 15 meters, the aircraft offers a range of 90 miles on a single charge. Operating within a cruising speed of 120 knots and an altitude range of 762 – 1,220 meters, passengers can enjoy reduced cabin noise, thanks to its innovative design.
While the Generation 6 aircraft operates under human supervision, it incorporates advanced decision-making software, sensors, and obstacle avoidance systems, ensuring a high level of safety in commercial aviation.
Anticipating a significant demand for air taxi services, Wisk projects approximately 14 million flights per year within three years. The company caters to 40 million passengers across 20 cities, all with zero CO2 emissions. This burgeoning industry could potentially reach a value of $4 trillion by 2035, according to Gary Gysin, the CEO of Wisk Aero.
Boeing aims to tap into the rapidly growing Asian market, competing with established players like Tokyo’s SkyDrive and Germany’s Volocopter, who are already gearing up to provide air taxi services for the 2025 Osaka World Expo.
