What Are eVTOLs? Are They the Future of Aviation?

The article discusses the potential benefits of electric vertical take-off and landing aircrafts (eVTOLs), which are similar to helicopters but are powered by batteries and are typically designed to carry two to six passengers. While eVTOLs have not yet taken to the skies in the United States, the author believes they will soon be ready to fly outside of testing, with certification by the Federal Aviation Administration taking time. One way to get eVTOLs in the sky quicker is to certify them for personal use. The certification process for non-commercial aircraft is less rigorous. The article also discusses the potential for eVTOLs to be used for commercial purposes, such as flying taxis or cargo transport. However, there are some concerns about the battery technology involved in commercial eVTOLs, which limits the aircraft’s range and carrying capacity. Additionally, there’s concerns about infrastructure, like the need for vertiports where eVTOLs can take off and land as well as how to charge them. Despite these hurdles, the use of eVTOLs is increasingly rooted in reality.