UK Plans Flying Taxi Services by 2028 with £20 Million Funding

The UK government is advancing plans to introduce flying taxis by 2028, with Transport Minister Mike Kane highlighting a £20 million funding commitment to support the development of commercial drones and flying taxi services. This initiative involves collaboration between the Department for Transport, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and the newly formed Regulatory Innovation Office aimed at reducing regulatory barriers to expedite public access to these technologies. US company Joby Aviation, in partnership with Virgin Atlantic, plans to launch zero-emission, electric air taxi services with hubs at Heathrow and Manchester Airports, featuring vehicles that can carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph. The government envisions flying taxis as faster, greener, and more cost-effective alternatives to traditional transport, potentially operating without pilots by 2030. Labour MP Alice Macdonald has promoted regional innovation efforts, inviting the minister to experience electric flight initiatives in East Anglia. Despite some political debate regarding travel disruptions, the government maintains its commitment to prioritizing passengers and accelerating the integration of these emerging aviation technologies.