One of the biggest challenges in metro cities is traffic congestion, which often wastes hours of valuable time.
To address this, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has recently approved new guidelines for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft.
This move is a significant step towards making the dream of flying cars a reality.
DGCA’s new rules are aimed at streamlining the certification process and ensuring the safety and reliability of Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) technologies in India.
Vertiports and Air Taxi Plans
The DGCA has issued a circular detailing safety requirements for eVTOL aircraft, covering aspects such as design,
manufacturing, structural strength, flight performance, equipment, and power plant installation.
This initiative follows global efforts to standardize eVTOL certification and is expected to evolve as the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector grows.
Last week, the DGCA also released an advisory on vertiports, which are specialized hubs for air taxis.
These vertiports will be designed similarly to airports, allowing eVTOL aircraft to take off and land vertically.
The first air taxi service is planned to start in Delhi, with future expansions to cities like Mumbai and Bangalore.
Guidelines for vertiport infrastructure, air taxi operations, battery charging, parking, landing, and emergency responses have been established.
Vertiports will only receive clearance after adhering to these rules.
