ARE THEY REALLY FLYING TAXIS? Why a ‘flying taxi’ is the future of aviation, not the taxi industry
The concept of flying taxis is capturing headlines and imaginations, promising a futuristic solution to urban congestion. But the question remains: are flying taxis really taxis? A closer examination of their characteristics suggests they have more in common with private aviation than the taxi sector.
To determine whether flying taxis qualify as taxis, it’s important to define what a taxi is. A traditional taxi operates as a public hire vehicle, compelled to serve passengers within its operational jurisdiction. Taxis are distinguished by their use of a taximeter, ensuring a regulated, fair fare structure. Perhaps most importantly, taxis excel in providing a convenient “last mile” service, taking passengers directly to their destination, no matter how remote or congested the location.
Flying taxis, as currently envisioned, fall short of these key criteria. Unlike ground-based taxis, flying vehicles are unlikely to be publicly compelled. Instead, they are expected to operate more like private hire vehicles or ride-sharing platforms, requiring advance bookings rather than immediate street hails. This significantly limits their accessibility as a public transport option.
Another significant deviation from traditional taxis is the reliance of flying taxis on designated landing and take-off areas. While ground-based taxis can navigate through tight city streets, pick up passengers curbside, and drop them at specific doorways, flying vehicles will require infrastructure such as vertiports or helipads. This means they are unlikely to meet the “last mile” demand that defines a taxi’s practicality.
The absence of a taximeter further distances flying taxis from the traditional model. A taximeter ensures that fares are calculated transparently based on distance, time, and local regulations. Flying taxis, however, are expected to adopt a pricing model closer to that of the aviation industry. Fares will likely be dynamic, influenced by demand, distance, and operational costs, much like private jets or commercial airlines. This removes the element of predictable and standardised pricing that passengers associate with traditional taxis.
The comparison with the aviation industry doesn’t end there. Flying taxis are set to offer a premium service targeting higher-income passengers. While their developers may aim to broaden accessibility over time, the initial focus on exclusivity further reinforces their alignment with private air travel rather than public hire transport.
It is also worth considering the regulatory landscape. Taxis operate under stringent local government rules, often requiring specific licences, testing, and adherence to local bylaws. Flying taxis, by contrast, are entering uncharted territory. Their operation will likely be governed by aviation authorities rather than local licensing authorities. This further separates them from the ground-based taxi framework.
In essence, flying taxis are a natural extension of the aviation industry rather than a redefinition of the taxi sector. They may one day play a role in urban mobility, offering a high-speed alternative for long journeys or bypassing streets. However, their reliance on pre-booked services, specialised infrastructure, and aviation-based pricing systems positions them firmly outside the traditional taxi model.
For now, the black cab and its global counterparts remain the true last-mile solution, providing door-to-door service for all, without the need for landing pads or premium price tags. While the skies may one day host a new generation of transport, the ground remains the undisputed domain of the taxi.
