Rooftops as Sky-Ports
India is actively exploring a transformative approach to urban transportation by envisioning rooftops as prime locations for electric air taxis, also known
as eVTOLs. This innovative strategy, detailed in a report by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), proposes converting existing building tops into operational landing and parking sites. This method is considered significantly more cost-effective and time-efficient than acquiring land for traditional ground-based helipads, especially in densely populated metropolises like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. By repurposing these underutilized spaces, buildings can become valuable assets, contributing to a new era of mobility. This concept is central to the nation's ambition to build a multi-dimensional, high-tech aviation ecosystem that prioritizes innovation and environmental sustainability, aiming to create a more interconnected and efficient India.
Pilot Corridor & Vision
A pioneering air corridor, proposed to link Gurugram, Connaught Place, and Jewar International Airport, is set to be a crucial pilot project. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) forecasts that this initiative could drastically reduce commute times from hours down to mere minutes, offering a potent solution to the persistent problem of urban traffic jams. This model is not just a localized experiment; it's designed with scalability in mind, with the potential to be rolled out across the entire country. Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, who launched the report 'Navigating the Future of Advanced Air Mobility in India,' emphasized the nation's move towards a 'high-tech, multi-dimensional mobility ecosystem.' He highlighted how integrating advanced air mobility underscores a strong commitment to groundbreaking innovation, ecological responsibility, and world-class urban connectivity, presenting a clear roadmap for a swifter, greener, and more connected future for India.
Regulatory Hurdles Ahead
While the vision for rooftop air taxi operations is compelling, current aviation regulations present a significant hurdle, as they do not currently permit regular commercial activities on rooftops. To overcome this, the report strongly recommends the establishment of a specialized unit within the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This dedicated team would be tasked with formulating robust safety protocols and operational standards specifically tailored for these nascent advanced air mobility technologies. Amit Dutta, Chairman of the CII Task Force on Advanced Air Mobility, underscored the report's practical approach, stating it translates a conceptual idea into a tangible operational assessment. By meticulously examining a hypothetical Delhi-NCR corridor through advanced modeling and regulatory scenario testing, the study meticulously addresses the core challenges related to regulations, infrastructure, and airspace management essential for initiating early advanced air mobility pilot programs.
Beyond Taxis: Drones & Funding
The scope of advanced air mobility extends beyond passenger air taxis. The report advocates for the initial deployment of drones for cargo and medical supply deliveries, covering distances between 50 to 100 kilometers. Areas like GIFT City and Andhra Pradesh are identified as ideal testing grounds, benefiting from more flexible regulations that can accelerate adoption. To fuel this burgeoning industry, the CII has issued a call to action for banks and government bodies to establish dedicated financial mechanisms supporting the development of essential air mobility infrastructure. This holistic approach aims to foster growth across various facets of aerial transportation, ensuring a comprehensive ecosystem for the future.
