The Los Angeles(LA) 2028 Olympics plans to revolutionize transportation for spectators by introducing an air taxi service. LA28, the committee responsible for planning the city’s third Summer Games, has partnered with Archer Aviation to provide this innovative transportation solution.
According to Archer Aviation’s founder and CEO Adam Goldstein, “We want to transform the way people get around Los Angeles and leave a legacy that shapes the future of transportation in America. There’s no better time to do that than during the LA28 Games”.
How it Works
The air taxi service will utilize Archer Aviation’s Midnight aircraft, which can carry up to four people and operates similarly to a helicopter in its take-offs and landings. The aircraft produces “less noise and emissions than a traditional helicopter” and is built with 12 engines and propellers. Spectators will be able to request an air taxi through an app, with prices comparable to a high-end Uber.
Benefits and Challenges
The air taxi service aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Los Angeles, a city notorious for its traffic jams. However, safety, regulations, and investment have proved to be significant hurdles for companies trying to introduce flying taxis. Despite these challenges, Archer Aviation remains confident that its aircraft can meet the required safety standards and become a reality for the 2028 Olympics. The company hopes to receive certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) “at similar levels of safety as commercial airliners”.
Key Features
- Flight Duration: 10-20 minutes
- Destinations: Select Olympic venues in the region
- Aircraft Capacity: Up to 4 people
- Pricing: Comparable to a high-end Uber
- Partnership: LA28 and Archer Aviation