Video Transcript
Vertical flight solutions provider Bristow Group Inc. announced a partnership with aircraft manufacturer Volocopter to advance electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft services in the United States and the United Kingdom.
The companies expect the addition of Volocopter’s digital platform,VoloIQ, to Bristow’s operational fleet to create new routes and cargo and passenger service opportunities in urban environments.
According to the agreement, both companies will begin developing an Urban Air Mobility (UAM) ecosystem that covers infrastructure exploration, regulatory discussions, and the establishment of local partnerships. Furthermore, the deal calls for exploring operational, commercial, and eVTOL maintenance services, including adapting the VoloIQ to ensure the efficiency of Bristow’s operations.
The collaboration also includes a firm order by Bristow for a pair of zero-emission VoloCity air taxis, which will be delivered upon certification. Bristow holds the option to acquire an additional 78 vehicles.
VoloCity certification is expected from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2024, with the latter possibly enabling Volocopter to begin commercial services in the U.S.
Featuring a fleet of single engines and light, medium, and heavy twins, Bristow has about 221 available aircraft globally that provide offshore energy, search and rescue, and government services.
Besides the VoloCity, Volocopter includes theVoloRegion, which is designed to connect the city with the suburbs, and theVoloDrone, an uncrewed fully-electric utility drone that can carry a payload of up to 200 kilograms over distances of up to 40 kilometers.
Volocopter also hopes to introduceVoloPort, a vertiport concept that would act as hubs for its passenger aircraft and other UAM aircraft.
