Proposing Unique and Innovative eVTOL Air Taxis to Enhance Tourist Experience in Binh Dinh
On October 29, the People’s Committee of Binh Dinh proposed the Ministry of Transport to consider, report, and recommend that the Prime Minister approve the initiative to pilot air taxis in the province.
eVTOL Air Taxis (Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) are aircraft that take off and land vertically, powered by electricity, and can carry 4-5 passengers. According to the People’s Committee of Binh Dinh, this mode of transportation is ideal for visitors and tourists to observe and appreciate the beauty of nature from above.
EHang’s air taxi transporting passengers in China. (Photo: EHang).
The provincial leaders also evaluated this mode of transportation as “green, novel, and unique,” with innovative characteristics that facilitate easy mobility without emitting harmful substances like cars or trains. These advantages align with the tourism development needs of Binh Dinh and the goal of sustainable development.
Based on this analysis, the People’s Committee of Binh Dinh believes that there is a need for a trial plan, the establishment of a legal framework, and a pilot roadmap to officially implement this type of transportation.
The eVTOL concept first gained attention in 2009 when a video of NASA’s Puffin aircraft prototype went viral. In recent years, several countries have researched and developed this type of vehicle for transportation applications, including China, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and South Korea.
In June, The Economist reported that China is developing air taxi technology faster than other countries. By the end of 2023, the Civil Aviation Administration of China granted approval for the EH216-S air taxi from EHang. In July, EHang delivered 10 units to a travel company for operation. The company has collaborated with partners in Hong Kong, Macau, and other cities in China to promote the application of this vehicle. This air taxi company has also showcased its vehicles in the UAE.
