All hail.. flying taxis to take off by 2026
UK transport ‘revolution’
FLYING taxis could take to the skies within two years and be driverless by the end of the decade.
Officials also foresee regular use of drones for crime fighting and delivering 999 aid by 2030.
The predictions are in the Department for Transport’s vision for an aviation revolution, which is unveiled today.
Adopting technology “once confined to sci-fi” could provide a £45billion boost to the economy by 2030, says the DfT.
Aviation and technology minister Anthony Browne added: “Cutting-edge battery technology will revolutionise transport. This plan will make sure we have the infrastructure and regulation in place to make it a reality.
“From flying taxis to emergency service drones, we’re making sure the UK is at the forefront of this dramatic shift in transportation.”
Flying taxis, being tested by the Civil Aviation Authority watchdog, have been made possible thanks to rapid advances in technology, meaning they are light enough to stay in the air and powerful enough to cover the distances needed.
West Midlands Police has been using drones to tackle violent crime and anti-social behaviour.
In July 2023, a drone team quickly identified two offenders and another suspect. The tech will be trialled by other forces, including Norfolk Police.
Drones have also been used in the NHS to speed deliveries.
Skyfarer has partnered with University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust and Medical Logistics UK to test drones to deliver surgical implants and pathology samples.
Sophie O’Sullivan, CAA head of future safety and innovation, said: “Aviation stands on the cusp of its next, potentially biggest, revolution since the jet engine.”