In a bid to rejuvenate the long-stalled flying taxi project in Paris, German electric aircraft manufacturer Volocopter has entered into a new partnership with French helicopter transport company Jet Systems Hélicoptères Services. The collaboration, announced on Tuesday, aims to develop flying taxi services in the Paris region, focusing initially on the delivery of two VoloCity aircraft.
Volocopter has been a partner with the Paris airport operator Groupe ADP in the ambitious project to introduce these electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles to the skies of Île-de-France. However, the initiative had faced numerous setbacks related to technical, regulatory, and legal challenges, compounded by opposition from local Parisian officials.
The agreement between Volocopter and Jet Systems Hélicoptères, based in Valence, Drôme, will become effective once the eVTOLs receive certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). According to a joint statement, 75% of the EASA inspections have been completed, and Volocopter aims to secure certification swiftly.
Michel Moulin, CEO of Jet Systems Hélicoptères, expressed enthusiasm for the potential of the VoloCity aircraft to offer safe, environmentally-friendly, and minimally disruptive mobility solutions. The company, known for providing helicopter transport to upscale Alpine ski resorts and offering introductory flights, sees this as a natural extension of its services.
The flying taxi venture had faced a significant hurdle in December when France’s Conseil d’État annulled the creation of a take-off and landing platform on the Seine River. Despite this setback, Groupe ADP reiterated its commitment to exploring new forms of decarbonized aerial mobility.
Outgoing ADP CEO Augustin de Romanet had championed the project for its innovative potential and its applicability to medical missions. However, incoming CEO Philippe Pascal, who is expected to have his appointment confirmed shortly, has yet to officially comment on the future of the flying taxi initiative. During a recent hearing, Pascal indicated a desire to refocus on the company’s core business, leaving the project’s future uncertain.
Volocopter, meanwhile, announced in December that it was seeking new investors to overcome financial difficulties and pursue restructuring efforts. As the company navigates these challenges, the new partnership with Jet Systems Hélicoptères offers a hopeful path forward for bringing flying taxis to Parisian airspace.
