Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) is developing an aerotaxi with a hybrid electric propulsion system on hydrogen fuel. This was reported in the press service of MAI.
The institute believes that the proposed solution can compete with commercial light helicopters. The project involves the creation of a prototype with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), capable of carrying cargo and people.
According to Yuri Bukharev, director of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Centre at the MAI, the design of the aerotaxi is expected to be completed in 2025. After that, a demonstrator will be produced to test the selected technical solutions.
He explained that the aerotaxi being developed at MAI will be equipped with a hydrogen-fuelled electric propulsion system, which will allow it to have zero harmful emissions and meet the requirements of the green agenda and the concept of hydrogen energy development in Russia.
The development and introduction of aerotaxis requires the creation of appropriate infrastructure, including hydrogen refuelling stations. According to experts, mass production and distribution of aerotaxis is a key factor in ensuring their commercial viability.
In Russia, air taxis are planned to be used to transport cargo and people in regions with poor road networks and difficult terrain, such as the North Caucasus and Krasnodar region. The use of air taxis in urban areas is still seen as a promising direction.
The altitude of the aerotaxi flight will be determined by airspace congestion. For short distances, the aircraft will rise to a height of about 150 metres, which will allow it to fly over buildings and avoid obstacles. For longer distances, such as 100 kilometres, the flight height can vary from 500 to 2,000 metres.
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