Air NZ, Zephyr team up on self-flying taxis

Air New Zealand and Zephyr Airworks have announced they have signed an agreement to work collaboratively on bringing the world’s first autonomous electric air taxi service to market in New Zealand.

Zephyr, bankrolled by Google cofounder Larry Page, is developing a self-flying plane, dubbed the Cora, that is being tested in Canterbury.

Although the aircraft is an estimated six years away from commercial launch, test flights are already taking place from a private airport near Christchurch.

Air NZ and Zephyr say they are forming a long-term relationship to make autonomous, electric air travel a reality for all New Zealanders.

Zephyr Airworks chief executive Fred Reid says the company is delighted to be fostering a close relationship with one of the world’s top-rated airlines.

Reid has previously spoken about using the pilot-less Cora for automated tourist flights or shorthaul flights.

The Cora could, for example, fly passengers from Auckland Airport to the city’s CBD, thanks to its vertical takeoff and landing ability.

The prototype being tested in Canterbury can hold two passengers. It has been under development since 2010.

Asked yesterday how Zephyr is tracking toward its target to launch the Cora within six years, country director Anna Kominik said: “We are working as fast as we are able towards certification and go-to market. We are working with New Zealand regulators on our certification pathway and that is going well.”

Air NZ boss Christopher Luxon says the airline is committed to embracing new technologies that make life easier, as well as understanding the potential of cleaner energy solutions for travel.