Australia’s South East Queensland (SEQ) region could soon be one of the first areas to experience eVTOL air taxi services, thanks to a new partnership between Wisk Aero and Skyports Infrastructure. Announced on Monday, the collaboration will focus on identifying locations for a network of vertiports to support Wisk’s Generation 6 eVTOL aircraft.
Growing Population and Upcoming Events Drive Development
SEQ is home to about 4 million people, with demographic estimates predicting a rise to 6 million over the next two decades. The city of Brisbane will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, which is expected to further accelerate infrastructure development in the region.
A Strategic Partnership for Advanced Air Mobility
Wisk, a California-based company owned by Boeing, has been working with Skyports since 2022 on various advanced air mobility ecosystem projects. Their partnership aims to enhance public transportation and tourism in SEQ through the deployment of autonomous eVTOL aircraft. In 2022, Wisk began discussions with SEQ’s Council of Mayors, representing 11 different communities, to explore the integration of their air taxi services.
Generation 6 eVTOL Aircraft: Innovation in Urban Air Mobility
Wisk’s Generation 6 aircraft, currently showcased at this week’s Farnborough Airshow, is designed to fly autonomously while carrying four passengers. It has an anticipated range of around 78 nautical miles and can cruise at speeds up to 120 knots. The company plans to start flight-testing the vehicle by the end of 2024. Since 2010, Wisk has completed over 1,700 test flights with earlier versions of the design, highlighting their commitment to safety and innovation.
Expanding Horizons in the Asia-Pacific Region
Wisk sees the Asia-Pacific region as a promising market for their eVTOL services. The company has been conducting development work in both New Zealand and Australia and launched a collaboration with Japan Airlines earlier this year. Wisk’s focus on this region underscores its strategic vision for expanding urban air mobility solutions.
As SEQ gears up for significant population growth and international events, the introduction of eVTOL air taxi services could revolutionize transportation in the region. With the combined expertise of Wisk Aero and Skyports Infrastructure, Southeast Queensland is poised to become a leader in advanced air mobility.
