Langgam Pos - The flying taxi trials for IKN (Nusantara Capital City) have successfully taken flight, adhering to designated airspace regulations. These flying taxis are controlled by a Ground Control Station located on the ground.
The Nusantara Capital Authority (IKN) and Hyundai Motor Group recently announced the successful completion of a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) flight test for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), or flying cars. The trial took place at Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport (APT Pranoto) in Samarinda on July 29, 2024.
The PoC AAM initiative aims to evaluate the reliability and readiness of flying cars as a form of smart, eco-friendly transportation in IKN's future. These flying cars are expected to serve as air taxis, transporting passengers around IKN.
Safety certifications and inspections have been conducted to ensure secure operation during this air transportation trial. The flying vehicle used is the OPPAV (Optional Passenger/Pilot Air Vehicle), a collaborative project between Hyundai Motor Group and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).
This trial follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between IKN Authority and Hyundai Motor Group on November 14, 2022, during the G20 summit in Bali.
Mohammed Ali Berawi, Deputy for Green and Digital Transformation at IKN Authority, explained that the collaboration with Hyundai is part of IKN’s role as a "living lab," where technology development and innovation testbeds are fostered.
“The success of this trial highlights global companies’ interest and commitment to participating in Nusantara’s development. It also demonstrates our dedication to supporting technological innovation and transitioning to sustainable energy,” he said.
Following this trial, Urban Air Mobility (UAM) will undergo further development through a series of studies, including technology, economic, environmental, social, regulatory, policy, and infrastructure assessments.
“Therefore, it is estimated that UAM operations may only commence after 2030, depending on the results of further studies,” added Ali.
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This mode of transport is designed to enhance urban mobility through innovative and eco-friendly aerial solutions. The integration of ground and air mobility was showcased with the Shucle mode, which transports passengers to AAM services.
During the OPPAV trial, the flying taxi traveled at a speed of 50 km/h and an altitude of 50 meters. The 10-minute flight included an eight-shaped holding pattern maneuver.
The trial demonstrated OPPAV’s performance in adhering to airspace allocation at APT Pranoto, with flight control managed by the Ground Control Station. Hyundai Motor Group has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing collaboration with the Indonesian government to develop the AAM ecosystem.
The company aims to commercialize AAM by 2028 and establish strategic partnerships with the Indonesian government and agencies to lead the AAM market in the future.
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