The operation of eVTOLs in the urban air mobility sector : use case & operator assessment

: use case & operator assessment

Abstract

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology enables a sustainable form of aviation for currently unserved connections. eVTOLs can reduce the carbon emissions of the aviation industry by replacing conventional helicopters and smaller aircrafts. In addition, traffic congestion in large cities can be decreased and travel times shortened. This thesis examines which use case is offered to the passengers. In addition, the prospective urban air mobility (UAM) market player that is expected to become a potential operator in the short term is summarized, alongside the value proposition (VP), key resources (KR), key activities (KA),and key partnerships (KP) of an eVTOL operator. The findings have been obtained through a qualitative research approach questioning 16 UAM experts, commercial as well as private aviation companies. The results reveal that eVTOL manufacturers are going to be the first market players to operate eVTOLs in the short to medium term. Commercial airlines are expected to step into the market in the long term. Interviews have additionally shown that airport shuttles will be the first served use case. The primary value proposition is saving time for the passengers. The primary key resource is human staff. The primary key activity is eVTOL maintenance. The primary key partnership is with the infrastructure provider and/or operator. Furthermore, this research adds value to the existing UAM literature on eVTOL operators, first commercially offered use cases as well as elements of an operator’s business model.

Date of Award	30 Jun 2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Peter V. Rajsingh (Supervisor)