We're not living in a world where flying cars are the norm, despite how hopeful and optimistic we were of such things a few decades ago.
But that doesn't mean we're far from a future similar to those dreams – indicative of which is the signing of a non-binding memorandum of understanding between Malaysia-based AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AirAsia) and Ireland-based Avolon, the second biggest aircraft leasing business in the world.
IMAGE: Bloomberg / Energy Connects
The new partnership will see AirAsia lease a minimum of 100 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Avolon, which the carrier hopes to use as an air ridesharing service in the near future.
The aircraft in question, the VX4 eVTOL by Vertical Aerospace, is a real looker too.
IMAGE: Vertical Aerospace / eVTOL.com
Avolon had pre-ordered 500 examples of the VX4 eVTOL from Vertical Aerospace back in June 2021. AirAsia's endorsement makes it the aircraft's first expansion into Southeast Asia, paving the way for a more sustainable mode of air transport (and transport in general) for the masses.
"The digital era is now. In the VX4, we have identified what we believe will be the eVTOL aircraft of choice and we are thrilled to be the launch airline for the aircraft in Southeast Asia," said Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A (formerly AirAsia Group).
"We are also delighted to extend our long-standing relationship with Avolon, which has a proven track record of delivering for its customers and is in sync with our goal to become the leading one-stop travel and delivery platform in ASEAN.”
IMAGE: AirAsia
Boasting enough room for five people (one pilot and four passengers), the VX4 can fly at speeds of up to 321 kilometers per hour, with a range of just over 160 kilometers. It's also expected to be near-silent in flight (100 times quieter than a helicopter at cruise and hover), making for a calm and relaxing commute to wherever it is you need to go. Plus, you won't be hurting the environment, thanks to zero operating emissions.
Perhaps the one thing you're worried about is cost, but fret not. According to Vertical, each passenger mile is supposed to be low cost. To make a real-world comparison, the money you'll be paying to ride in a VX4 will cost just a little bit more than a conventional taxi on the ground.
IMAGE: Vertical Aerospace / LBB Online
IMAGE: Reuters / The Guardian
Let's just call it a more premium ridesharing service without the luxurious prices.
According to Fernandes, flights could start by the year 2025, with the company predicting quicker approval from regulators in Malaysia and Singapore, followed by Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Are you ready to take to the skies?
Learn more about the VX4 eVTOL here.
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