Airbus prepares its AAM eVTOL plane for operation in Japan

Aviation giant Airbus is expanding its efforts to develop advanced air mobility (AAM) and air taxi services with a project to prepare operation of its CityAirbus NextGen electric takeoff and landing (eVTOL) craft in Japan.

Airbus said work to ready its CityAirbus NextGen eVTOL for AAM and air taxi use in Japan’s Kansai region will transpire under a partnership with Hiratagakuen, a leading provider of helicopter services. As part of that activity approved by the Osaka Prefecture, the companies will map out and test optimal flight routes, establish operational and safety systems, and organize a demonstration flight before the end of the year.

In addition to pursuing the groundwork – and airspace preparation – for AAM transportation, Airbus says the partnership will explore other kinds of uses of its eVTOL plane, including medical activities, emergency response, ecotourism, a variety of public services, and flights beyond the urban confines of most air…