A University of South Florida researcher is heading up a statewide initiative to integrate electric air taxis into Florida’s transportation network, with the Tampa Bay area among the first regions targeted for potential service.
Dr. Yu April Zhang, who leads USF’s Advanced Air Mobility program, is working to incorporate electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft — known as eVTOLs — into the state’s existing transit system. The aircraft would operate at altitudes between 500 and 3,000 feet and travel at speeds of 100 to 200 miles per hour, providing an aerial alternative to ground-level traffic.
Zhang used artificial intelligence tools to model passenger demand and simulate flight patterns across the region. Her research has identified potential “vertiport” locations — takeoff and landing hubs — in downtown Tampa, the Westshore district, and downtown St. Petersburg.
The effort is part of a broader federal push: the FAA has selected Florida as one of eight states for eVTOL integration testing.
Researchers say the initiative is particularly relevant in the Tampa Bay area, where a limited number of bridges already create significant traffic bottlenecks and no high-speed rail system offers commuters alternatives.
Estimated passenger costs would range from $3 to $6 per mile, putting a typical short urban trip in the $40 to $120 range. Zhang acknowledges the rollout will be gradual.
“I envision it will have a slow start,” she said, “but later, the maturity level will increase.”
The FAA is still completing airworthiness certifications for eVTOL aircraft. If approved, limited commercial service could begin as soon as late this year, with broader expansion expected over time as infrastructure and safety standards develop.
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