Urban-Air Port & GKN Aerospace to Develop Vertiport Concept for Mass Transit eVTOLs

UK vertiport developer, Urban-Air Port (UAP), and tier 1 aerospace supplier, GKN Aerospace, are collaborating to explore infrastructure for large, high capacity eVTOL passenger shuttle operations. UAP designs, develops, manufactures, sells and operates ground, air and digital infrastructure for new forms of sustainable urban air transport such as air taxis and autonomous delivery drones. 

Its Air One model, one of UAP’s suite of infrastructure solutions, is modular by design, scalable and ultra-compact.

It recently completed the launch of Air One, a world-first demonstration of its vertiport technology in Coventry, UK, and plans to deliver over 200 vertiports across the world in the next five years.

This enhanced Air One model includes multiple hangars, multi-level take-off and landing zones and flexible stands uniquely incorporating a Multiple Apron Ramp System (MARS) for eVTOLs. 

GKN Aerospace has recently completed the initial feasibility studies for the Skybus project, a six-rotor, 30-person eVTOL concept.

UAP and GKN Aerospace say they are looking forward to further opportunities for collaboration with the shared goal of making UAM affordable and accessible for all.

Ricky Sandhu, Founder & Executive Chairman, Urban-Air Port, says: “We’re very excited to be working with GKN Aerospace, a world-leader in the aerospace and UAM industry, on this ground breaking and game-changing project. By working in collaboration with GKN Aerospace and understanding the functional requirements of Skybus we have defined a tailored version of our Air One model that allows a future of larger eVTOLs to efficiently fit into complex city environments around the world. We have aligned visions to realise sustainable, scalable and viable advanced air mobility systems to unleash clean, seamless and affordable air travel for all.”

Max Brown, VP Technology GKN Aerospace, adds: “At GKN Aerospace, we are passionate about technologies that bring economic, social and environmental benefits for future generations. It will take a range of technologies and collaboration across the whole industry to achieve our net zero goal. Collaborating with UAP on development of vertiport concepts is a great example of GKN Aerospace’s ambition to work in partnership to inspire our customers into new markets, products and technologies.”

UAP is backed by the UK Government and major international partners, including Hyundai’s Supernal.