Indonesia is set to test its first flying taxis in July for its new capital Nusantara and plans to showcase them at Independence Day celebrations on Aug 17. The vehicle parts have arrived in Balikpapan in East Kalimantan, with batteries set to be shipped to Samarinda for assembly and trials at Samarinda airport. These flying taxis, which can carry five people, are a collaboration between the Korea Aerospace Research Institute and Hyundai Motors Company, with the aim of developing an advanced air mobility ecosystem in Indonesia.
The Nusantara Capital City Authority and Hyundai have signed a memorandum of understanding, with plans for the flying taxis to be operational in Indonesia by 2045. After the trial period, Hyundai is expected to develop a business model for the flying taxis through its subsidiary in the United States, Supernal, which specializes in urban air mobility. The company will also work on developing autonomous flight technology for the vehicles. With this initiative, Indonesia is joining the ranks of countries like the United Arab Emirates, Slovakia, and Japan, which have already started testing flying taxis.
The goal is to provide an opportunity for people to experience flying cars, as not many have had the chance to do so. The flying taxis are seen as a step towards modernizing transportation in Indonesia and providing a more efficient mode of travel. The collaboration with Hyundai and KARI underscores the commitment towards developing advanced air mobility solutions in the country. The vehicles are expected to offer a unique mode of transportation that can potentially transform urban mobility and make commuting faster and more convenient.
The flying taxis are part of a broader effort to develop sustainable and innovative transportation solutions in Indonesia. By testing and implementing flying taxis, the country is exploring new ways to address transportation challenges and enhance connectivity. The involvement of local media and the public in reporting and following the development of the flying taxis is indicative of the high level of interest and anticipation surrounding this new mode of transportation. By involving various stakeholders and partners, Indonesia is working towards establishing a comprehensive ecosystem for advanced air mobility.
