Flying taxis are capturing the spotlight at the Auto Expo taking place at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan and Greater Noida. The inaugural air taxi, Blues Aero, was tested at the Expo Centre in Greater Noida on Sunday.
Range approximately 300 kilometers
This innovative vehicle boasts a range of approximately 300 kilometers and can accommodate up to eight passengers. The prototype was unveiled in Delhi before its trial run in Greater Noida. Officials anticipate launching the service by the end of this year, making short trips significantly more convenient.
Vaishali Neotia, an official from Blues Aero, mentioned that the air taxi is being produced in Hyderabad as part of the Make in India initiative. It will operate on both hydrogen and battery power, with plans to commence services next year. The first phase aims to manufacture 500 air taxis.
The ‘Zero’ air taxi, showcased in Delhi, can reach speeds of up to 250 km per hour and requires just 20 minutes of charging for a trip. It has a range of 160 km, ideal for short journeys of 20-30 km, and can carry seven passengers, including the pilot. Shivam Chauhan, co-founder of Sarla Aviation, announced plans to launch the flying taxi service in Bengaluru by 2028, with potential services in the North East states as well. The military has expressed a constant need for such air taxis.
Company representatives noted that this air taxi will feature vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities, allowing it to operate in tighter spaces than traditional aircraft. It can cover distances of up to 300 km and also has the potential to be used for air cargo.