CII Study Proposes Air Taxi Corridor to Revolutionize Delhi-NCR Travel
A groundbreaking report by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has unveiled a visionary plan for an Air Taxi service in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), promising to transform urban mobility by slashing travel times dramatically. According to the study titled "Navigating the Future of Advanced Air Mobility in India," this initiative could reduce journeys of nearly 100 kilometers from hours to just 30 minutes, specifically targeting the corridor linking Gurugram, Connaught Place, and the upcoming Noida International Airport at Jewar.
Advanced Air Mobility: A Transformative Solution for Urban Congestion
The CII report highlights that Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is rapidly emerging as a transformative paradigm in next-generation urban transport. It addresses critical challenges such as traffic congestion and inefficient connectivity in densely populated areas. By leveraging electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, this technology offers a clean, high-speed alternative to conventional road and rail systems, aligning with India's Net-Zero 2070 goals through zero-emission operations.
"By establishing a flagship pilot corridor connecting Gurugram, Connaught Place, and Jewar International Airport, India can leapfrog traditional infrastructure bottlenecks and position itself as a global leader in Advanced Air Mobility," the report states. This initiative not only promises to cut transit times but also drives sustainable development by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Proposed Route and Operational Details
The CII assessed a hypothetical 65-75 km corridor, modeling it to optimize efficiency while complying with regulatory standards. Key aspects of the proposed route include:
- Gurugram to Connaught Place: The aerial distance is approximately 27–30 km, but due to airspace restrictions over areas like Indira Gandhi International Airport and Lutyens' Zone, the practical flight path detours northward via locations such as Punjab Bagh or Kashmere Gate. This increases the distance to 35–38 km, yet travel time remains under 12 minutes, compared to 60–90 minutes by road during peak hours.
- Connaught Place to Jewar Airport: By road, this segment covers over 100 km and takes 2 to 2.5 hours. The proposed aerial route would traverse southeast, avoiding dense urban areas and restricted zones, covering 65-70 km in just 18-20 minutes.
The report emphasizes that effective route planning must account for airspace constraints to ensure safety and compliance with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations.
Feasibility and Infrastructure Development
A feasibility matrix in the report outlines several advantages of the AAM corridor:
- Distance Efficiency: The total route length is significantly shorter than road-based equivalents.
- Travel Time Reduction: Full corridor achievable in under 30 minutes versus 2.5–3 hours by road.
- Environmental Impact: Zero tailpipe emissions and lower noise profiles compared to helicopters or premium cars.
- Scalability: Potential for future extensions to areas like Faridabad or Ghaziabad.
For infrastructure development, the CII proposes a phased strategy:
- Step 1: Repurpose existing helipads on hospitals and commercial buildings for initial eVTOL operations as vertistops.
- Step 2: Develop new vertiports and vertihubs integrated with urban infrastructure, involving collaboration with municipal authorities and urban development agencies.
Additionally, the report recommends establishing a Gurugram-Delhi-Jewar Advanced Air Mobility Corridor Coordination Committee, chaired by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, to streamline multi-state clearances and support pilot operations.
Global Context and India's Position
The CII notes that globally, cities are exploring AAM as a sustainable alternative for infrastructure-constrained environments. India, with its rapidly expanding metropolitan regions, is uniquely positioned to adopt tailored AAM solutions. This initiative could serve as a model for other urban areas facing similar mobility challenges, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
In summary, the CII study presents a compelling case for air taxis in Delhi-NCR, offering a futuristic solution to urban transport woes while promoting environmental sustainability. As plans progress, this corridor could redefine how residents and commuters navigate the bustling capital region.
