In a move that promises to change the face of urban mobility, Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has partnered with Sarla Aviation to bring electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft to Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). This collaboration aims to drastically reduce the travel time from Bengaluru's city center to the airport, cutting it down to just 5 minutes.
The eVTOLs are electric-powered aircraft designed to hover, take off, and land vertically, much like helicopters. They offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to the city's often congested roads. Unlike traditional helicopters, eVTOLs have fewer mechanical parts, reducing maintenance costs and increasing reliability. Each aircraft can carry six passengers along with a pilot, with a top speed of 250 km/h.
Fast, Clean, and Efficient Urban Air Travel
Commuters often face lengthy traffic jams on the way to the airport, especially during peak hours or the rainy season. Sarla Aviation’s seven-seater eVTOL flying taxis aim to tackle this issue head-on. These electric aircraft, which take only 15 minutes to charge between trips, will provide an air taxi service that promises a quieter, cleaner, and more cost-effective experience than traditional helicopters.
For example, a route from Indiranagar to the airport, which typically takes 1.5 hours, will now take just 5 minutes using an eVTOL. Similarly, a trip from Electronics City to the airport could be completed in 19 minutes, compared to the usual three-hour car journey during rush hour. The projected fare for these routes is expected to be ₹1,700, making them affordable compared to existing helicopter services.
What eVTOLs Mean for Bengaluru’s Future
Sarla Aviation has big plans for these flying taxis, including the potential for routes in other congested cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. While the service may take another two to three years to become fully operational, the collaboration between BIAL and Sarla Aviation signals a significant shift towards sustainable aviation solutions.
These eVTOLs offer more than just airport commutes. Sarla Aviation envisions using them for cargo deliveries, emergency medical services, and urban air taxis, further cementing the role of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in solving traffic woes and reducing carbon emissions.
The Future of Urban Air Mobility in India
Before the service can take off, Sarla Aviation and BIAL need to clear regulatory hurdles set by the Civil Aviation Ministry and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). However, the partnership represents a forward-thinking approach to urban transportation, leveraging cutting-edge aviation technology to address the city’s notorious traffic problems.
By bringing electric flying taxis to Bengaluru, the city is on its way to becoming a pioneer in urban air mobility. Once operational, these eVTOL aircraft will offer a sustainable, quick, and reliable transportation option that could set the benchmark for cities around the world.
