The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) is supporting the practical use of “flying cars” by providing subsidies for the experimental development of landing sites, also known as vertiports (VP), by local governments and private businesses. The subsidy will cover half of the development costs, up to 50 million yen per site. After assessing the operational results post-completion, guidelines for practical development methods will be established from the fiscal year 2026 onwards.
Importance of Vertiports (VP) for Flying Cars
- Global Standards and Necessity: To expand the commercial operation of flying cars, the widespread adoption of vertiports (VP) is crucial. VPs must meet global standards and ensure convenience equivalent to existing airfields.
- Guideline Formulation: In December 2023, the “Vertiport Development Guidelines” were formulated and published, considering global standards like those of EASA. Currently, VP planning and design are progressing based on these guidelines.
- Need for Reference Standards: For those planning and designing VPs, there is a need for reference examples and standards for the layout of basic facilities, auxiliary facilities, and passenger use facilities at VPs.
- Support and Data Collection: The national government will support VP development and collect information on the layout, operation, and performance of facilities at VPs. This information will be used to create the “Vertiport Planning Guidelines (Tentative).”
Subsidy Target Facilities
Basic Facilities:
- FATO (Final Approach and Takeoff area)
- Taxiways
- Stands
- Perimeter fences
Auxiliary Facilities:
- Hangars for storing aircraft equipment
- Charging facilities
- Firefighting and rescue facilities
Passenger Use Facilities:
- Security facilities
- Passenger waiting rooms
Subsidy Rate and Target Businesses
Subsidy Rate: Up to 1/2 of the cost
Target Businesses: Vertiport operators
Application and Selection Process
The support targets local governments or private businesses responsible for the establishment, management, and operation of landing sites. Approximately four locations will be selected through a public call for applications, with the application deadline set for July 12.
The landing sites need to include facilities such as areas for takeoff and landing, taxiways, parking lots, hangars, charging equipment, and passenger waiting rooms. The development must be completed within the fiscal year 2024, with trial flights planned for the fiscal year 2025.
Review and Guideline Creation
Upon completion, data on the operation and usage of each landing site will be reviewed. Challenges and necessary measures identified during the development will be used to create guidelines. These guidelines will include optimal layout plans for each facility, specifications for hangars and passenger waiting rooms, and other foundational standards.
Future Applications of Flying Cars
Flying cars, which are electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles, are expected to be used for a wide range of applications, including emergency transport, island and mountainous area mobility, and urban taxi services. Local governments are advancing roadmaps towards practical implementation, including route planning and usage scenarios.
Reference:
https://www.mlit.go.jp/report/press/content/001748095.pdf
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