Eve Air Mobility has partnered with Jeju Air to develop a CONOPS, the outcome of a 12-month research initiative by a working group that includes insights from a recent market survey conducted by Jeju Air for Jeju Island.
Eve Air Mobility, a leader in Urban Air Mobility (UAM), has joined forces with Jeju Air, South Korea’s major low-cost carrier, to develop a Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for Jeju Island. The CONOPS is the outcome of a 12-month research initiative by a working group that includes insights from a recent market survey conducted by Jeju Air to understand customer attitudes toward future UAM services.
The white paper, published in English to cater to national and international stakeholders interested in advancing the UAM industry in Korea, outlines key findings and recommendations for the development of Urban Air Mobility services on Jeju Island. The CONOPS addresses perspectives from both operators and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) regarding the initial phases of UAM operations, specifically focusing on crewed Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights using electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Jeju Island, known for its UNESCO sites and appealing climate, attracted over 13 million tourists in 2022. Given the island’s tourism potential, the working group envisions that initial UAM missions would likely involve scenic flights, leveraging Jeju Island’s natural attractions in uncontrolled airspace. According to a survey by Jeju Air, 34% of respondents expressed a preference for scenic flights as their ideal UAM service.
Apart from the tourism benefits, the development of UAM on Jeju Island is anticipated to generate over 1,100 new jobs in the long term. However, the working group emphasizes the importance of engaging with the local community to address the cost-benefit trade-off for UAM, drawing lessons from past national projects with potential social implications.
Eve Air Mobility and Jeju Air share a common goal of accelerating the safe and successful development of UAM operations in Korea. The collaboration reflects a commitment to making UAM services a reality on Jeju Island, bringing together Eve’s global experience in CONOPS development and Jeju Air’s insights into the local market.
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The publication of the CONOPS is a significant step toward creating a framework for the integration of Urban Air Mobility services in Jeju Island, offering insights into operational concepts, airspace considerations, and market analysis. As the UAM industry continues to evolve, collaborations between aviation companies and airlines are crucial for shaping the future of urban air transportation.
Question – What is the main purpose of the CONOPS?
Answer – To outline key findings and recommendations for launching electric flying taxi services on Jeju Island.
Question –What type of UAM services are initially envisioned?
Answer – Scenic flights leveraging Jeju’s natural attractions, catering to tourist demand.
Question – What are the potential benefits and considerations for developing UAM on Jeju Island?
Answer – Job creation, improved connectivity, but community engagement and cost-benefit trade-offs need careful attention.
Note– MRO Business Today is the Principal Media Partner of the 5th MRO SOUTH ASIA SUMMIT 2024 co-located with the MRO XPO INDIA & AIRCRAFT INTERIORS INDIA 2024 to be held on 27,28 & 29 February 2024 at the Le Méridien New Delhi, India.
