Germany-based urban mobility developer Volocopter and its partners, Atlantia, UrbanV, and airport operator Aeroporti di Roma, have conducted the first crewed eVTOL test flights in Italian airspace.
During the event, which took place on October 6, 2022, a test pilot performed a five minute demo flight with Volocopter’s eVTOL, during which it flew 40 meters above ground.
The test flight was performed as a part of a mobility ecosystem setup plan at Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) in Rome.
The demo flight campaign was followed by a showcase of both the brand-new vertiport and Volocopter platform. This has been developed to support not only demo eVTOL flights but the full ground urban mobility operations, including eVTOL battery charging and swapping.
Yet another milestone for #Volocopter, this time in #Rome: the first crewed eVTOL flight in Italian airspace, made possible by our collab with @Atlantia and @ADR. Witnessing a #UAM milestone firsthand is an incredible achievement and a spectacular memory. https://t.co/ldchb5n2VV
— Volocopter (@volocopter) October 6, 2022
Italy’s first 5,500 square-meter vertiport features a final approach and take-off area (FATO) for landing and take-off operations, a parking area, a covered hangar, office rooms, a warehouse, and an area for battery charging.
Airport operator Aeroporti di Roma estimates that the eVTOL transfer services could be launched at FCO airport as soon as 2024. The typical transfer flight is expected to take up to 20 minutes.
“Today’s event represents a significant milestone in our path as pioneers in testing and implementing Advanced Air Mobility in Italy, and in playing our part in making urban transports increasingly sustainable and seamless,” Aeroporti di Roma chief executive Marco Troncone said.
“Flying the first EVTOL crew represents a remarkable step towards the activation of the first AAM routes between Fiumicino airport and Rome city center by the end of 2024,” the CEO added.
