Urban air mobility (UAM) in the metropolitan region of São Paulo: Potential and threats

Abstract

Purpose: The increase in congestion and pollution in large cities combined with the innovation of air transport technology (drones and vertical takeoff and electric propulsion vehicles – eVTOL) and with the advances in autonomous technology have stimulated this research on the potential of Urban Air Mobility – UAM as an alternative to improve mobility conditions in urban centers. In this research, the evaluation of the UAM's potential was carried out with a focus on the metropolitan region of São Paulo (RMSP), the largest metropolitan region in Brazil, with about 22 million inhabitants, and one of the ten most populous metropolitan regions in the world.Design/methodology/approach: In addition to evaluating challenges such as vehicle certification, infrastructure and ATM, an assessment of public acceptance of UAM (based on a survey) was carried out. The survey identified the perceptions of potential customers regarding the gains of the air mobility alternative, as well as the restrictions and fears in relation to the UAM. The opinion poll was carried out along the same lines as the work carried in Europe, allowing the comparison of results between the two markets.Findings: The main results highlighted the identification of the biggest problems for the implementation of UAM services in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, as well as the expectations and restrictions of customers, which will be important subsidies for the development of public policies to improve conditions mobility in the region.Originality/value: UAM is a new, disruptive mobility technology that can improve travel conditions in highly congested urban centers, such as the RMSP. The success of this new technology depends on understanding the challenges and opportunities, but mainly on the perception and expectations of potential customers.