In an effort to prepare the national airspace for passenger transportation and drone delivery services, Israel has begun test flights of air taxis capable of carrying passengers and large freight while relieving road traffic congestion.
With the collaboration of authorities and commercial firms, the Israel National Drone Initiative (INDI) project intends to develop a national drone network and prepare the sky for drone deliveries across the Jewish state. The Transportation Ministry, the Israel Innovation Authority, Ayalon Highways Ltd., and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI) are all involved.
“This is the first initiative of its kind in the world for an extensive and multidisciplinary examination of new technologies, including the transportation of cargo and later, people,” Transportation Minister Miri Regev was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel.
“The collaborative project examines all the aspects – including regulation and legislative changes – involved in the commercial operation of drones, as an additional tool to deal with congestion,” he added.
The air taxi project’s second phase
The air taxis were introduced as part of the second phase of the INDI project, which has received a total investment of $60 million so far. 11 drone operating and delivery companies were involved in the experimental tests.
For the first time, an autonomous flying vehicle, an electric vertical takeoff, and landing (eVTOL) aircraft with long-distance capability, and a substantial cargo load were all tested within regulated urban airspace. Cando Drones, Israeli Air, and Downwind all produced notable successes.
“The significance of these demonstrations lies in creating a regulatory sandbox that allows all relevant stakeholders to have practical experience before establishing a regulatory infrastructure that enables a wider economically viable model,” said Israel Innovation Authority CEO Dror Bin.
Air routes are being developed
According to Israeli media sources, air taxis have completed over 19,000 sorties in the last three years. The businesses hope to ramp up testing over the next two years, with weekly flights.
The Israeli authorities are developing a system of aerial pathways in the sky to assure the safety of hundreds of drones operating at the same time. It will allow multiple types of drones to fly at the same time for a variety of purposes. To chalk out a foolproof strategy, INDI has also joined forces with the Israeli Air Force, Israel Airports Authority Ltd., and local municipalities.