Volocopter test flight Helsinki
Germany's air taxi, Volocopter, has flown a successful test flight at Helsinki International Airport being simultaneously integrated with traditional Air Traffic Management (ATM) systems as well as Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM).
Air traffic management in urban spaces is increasingly difficult with more drones and manned aircraft flying over cities. The test flight in the Gulf of Finland demonstrated successfully how ATM and UTM systems can work together to allow for safe, efficient air taxi operations in urban environments, including busy international airports.
“As air traffic continues to rise in number and kinds – especially with the arrival of unmanned aircrafts and air taxis, the technology and rules for using VVL airspace needs updating, “ said project coordinator Maria Tamm from Estonian Air Navigation Services (EANS).
The German designed and produced Velocopter can fly autonomously and carry two passengers using 18 individual rotors powered by nine replaceable batteries. The aircraft's top speed has been reported at 100 km/h, with a maximum flight time of 30 minutes. The test fligh at Helsinki Airport saw the aircraft integrate with three different providers of UTM systems; AirMap, Altitude Angel and Unifly.
“We are happy to say that all providers we tested were compatible with the Volocopter systems,” said Jan-Hendrik Boelens, Volocopter CTO. “As a member of the SESAR consortium, we have the rare opportunity to work at the forefront of integrating ATM/UTM with all relevant stakeholders at the table: regulators, airports, air navigation service providers and UTM providers.
“We know that air taxi technology is viable: certification has been defined by the EASA, we will build our first VoloPort infrastructure before the year is out and… now it’s time to bring Urban Air Mobility to life,” he added.
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