Pioneering tests conducted for new generation of electric aircraft

The realisation of a new generation of air traffic in our skies has taken a step forward after tests were carried out, which showed how electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL), otherwise known as flying taxis, could be integrated safely with conventional craft.

The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) simulations by NATS, the air traffic control service, were conducted from Bristol airport through the airspace around Farnborough airport, and then onto London City airport.

Behind them is the Advanced Mobility Ecosystem Consortium, a Future Flight Challenge programme, jointly funded by UK Research and Innovation.

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It includes Vertical Aerospace, Virgin Atlantic, AtkinsRéalis, Skyports, NATS, Connected Places Catapult, Cranfield University and WMG - University of Warwick.

Richard Ellis, the new airspace users director at NATS, said: "We are excited to demonstrate this world leading capability showcasing how Advanced Air Mobility vehicles can safely and digitally integrate at scale within the existing crewed operations at major airports.

"These simulations are a big step forward and we look forward to making it a reality in the near future."
NATS project lead Anna Postma-Kurlanc added: "Our skies are already busy, so we are going to have to find new, innovative ways of managing and integrating this new generation of electric aircraft.

"Safety is always going to be our first priority, and the airspace manager function and new technologies we’re developing as a conduit between the eVTOL operators and traditional air traffic control, is going to be vital.

"We know how important it is to decarbonise aviation, and we believe what we’ve done here sets a very strong foundation upon which we can continue to build in the coming years," she added.

Under NATS' concept, each eVTOL operator would file their flight plans via an application, which could then be approved or amended.

A new 'Airspace Manager' function monitors the airspace from a so-called digital ‘master control room’.
James Richmond, head of advanced air mobility at consortium leaders AtkinsRéalis said: "These simulations are a critical milestone on our roadmap because they prepare us for the live demonstrations we plan to conduct in late 2024.

"The consortium is showing how different stakeholders across the industry need to collaborate to create a future aviation ecosystem that adapts to changing passenger behaviour and maintains the UK’s leading position in the future of aviation."

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