UrbanLink Air Mobility, a start-up operator based in South Florida, has taken a significant step towards establishing itself within the emerging air taxi industry by signing a cooperation agreement with the Spanish company Crisalion Mobility. This agreement, revealed on 4 December, allows UrbanLink to pre-sell 20 units of Crisalion's in-development Integrity electric air taxi, contributing to a building order backlog that now totals 145 units.
UrbanLink is positioning itself to become the first independent operator of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the United States, distinguishing itself from major manufacturers such as Archer Aviation, Beta Technologies, and Joby Aviation, which are expected to be the first original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to operate eVTOLs in the nation. Ed Wegel, the chief executive of UrbanLink, has described Crisalion as "one of Europe’s most well-funded and expertly managed" companies within this rapidly evolving sector. He noted that the Integrity's design, which boasts reduced vibration while optimising speed and range, showcases impressive innovation.
The Integrity air taxi, designed to accommodate five passengers, incorporates a unique “FlyFree” propulsion and stability system. This system utilises four quad-rotor units mounted on booms attached to a fixed wing, which Crisalion claims enhances inflight stability compared to competitors’ models. The air taxi is slated to enter service by 2030, aligning with UrbanLink’s ambitious vision for a sustainable transportation network encompassing air, sea, and ground connections.
UrbanLink, which was established earlier this year by Wegel, who previously led GlobalX Airlines, has shown significant interest in various in-development aircraft. In addition to the tentative order from Crisalion, UrbanLink has also placed similar orders for 20 units of Eviation’s all-electric Alice commuter aircraft and a firm commitment for 20 units from the German developer Lilium, despite the company facing challenges regarding its financial viability. Furthermore, UrbanLink has expressed interest in utilising Traverse Aero’s autonomous hybrid eVTOL for cargo operations and Regent Craft’s forthcoming wing-in-ground-effect "seagliders."
The developments within the eVTOL sector are underscored by Eve Air Mobility, which announced on 3 December that it secured a letter of intent for up to 50 air taxis with US-based operator Helicopters Inc. This latest deal adds to Eve’s expanding order book, which now comprises nearly 3,000 units, reflecting the growing interest and investment in advanced air mobility solutions.
Source: Noah Wire Services