Growing support for the launch of air taxis could help boost remote communities in Canada, according to research by Horizon Aircraft, a Canadian-based leader in hybrid electric Vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial vehicles.
Government data shows that roughly one in nine Canadians are classed as living in remote areas, which accounts for 74.6% of the Canadian landmass, and there is growing concern about the long-term future of these remote communities. According to Horizon’s research, which included the views of people living in remote communities, found two out of three (66%) of Canadians would welcome the use of air taxis to address negative issues associated with living in remote communities such as poor access to transport, isolation and unreliable supplies of critical goods and medical supplies.
The study also found that 60% of Candians are very receptive to the ides of air taxis or eVTOLs and would be happy to travel in a regulatory agency approved air taxi. Almost half (48%) would be happy to use them as soon as they are commercially operational. Similarly, around 48% would also be happy to fly in eVTOLs in other countries outside Canada.
In addition, the research revealed that the introduction of air taxis and eVTOLs could increase interest in Canada to moving to more remote areas with 45% saying they would consider moving if eVTOLs were more readily available ot enable travel and ensure a strong supply chain.
Unsurprisingly, Horizon also found that regulators and eVTOL manufacturers and operators will need to focus on safety and pilot training if air taxis are to be seen as a viable mode o transport and attract customers. Around 70% of those questioned said safety issues are very important, while 67% stressed the need for well-trained pilots. Around 56% said cost would be very important and 28% declared comfort was important.
