It may seem like something out of a science fiction movie, but self-flying taxis could soon become reality in the Magic City. Boeing subsidiary, Wisk Aero, is an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company specializing in all-electric, autonomous flight vehicles. And in what sounds like a possible solution to Miami’s traffic problem, the company is working with the Miami-Dade Aviation Department to bring these flying machines to South Florida.
The two reached an agreement in June to set the stage for the service. Under the partnership, they will work on identifying optimal sites at Miami International, Miami Executive and Opa-locka Executive Airports to develop “vertiports” for the aerial taxi operations. The county agency will incorporate autonomous air mobility considerations into existing planning efforts, including airport development, electrical infrastructure and airspace management.
“This collaboration with Wisk allows us to strategically plan for the future of air travel, enhance connectivity, and explore new economic opportunities for Miami-Dade County,” said Mayor Daniella Levine Cava in a press release. “MIA is the busiest airport in Florida and the second busiest in the country for international passengers, which makes it the perfect launch site for AAM.”
Additionally, Wisk reached an agreement with the University of Miami’s Miami Engineering and Aviation Mobility Initiative to focus on research and development that will further advance autonomous mobility technology. This includes operations, regulations and safety. The university will also pursue grant opportunities for joint projects.
What do these air taxis look like?
The electric taxis, known as Generation 6 aircraft, are designed to carry up to four passengers and their luggage. They take off and land vertically like a helicopter — eliminating the need for a runway — before cruising on fixed wings like a plane. And while made for autonomous flight, a human supervisor would oversee every flight from the ground.
Take a look at the Gen 6 prototype here:
When are these air taxi services expected to launch?
Don’t expect these self-flying taxis to be up and running in the next year or so. As reported by the Miami Herald, Wisk expects certification from the Federal Aviation Administration by 2030.
The company has carried out more than 1,750 test flights and is working to bring its autonomous air taxi services to cities like Los Angeles, Houston and Brisbane, Australia. Miami now joins the list of launch markets, making it one of the first to get this new way of traveling!