Morocco is interested in partnering with Spain and UK for air taxis

Morocco has entered the rapidly growing air taxi market. It hopes to work with Spain and UK to develop next-generation electric aircraft that can perform vertical takeoff and landing.

Aciturri Aerostructures of Spain and Vertical Aerospace from the UK would work with Moroccan companies to produce structural components for VX4, an aircraft that is zero-emission and designed for urban and regional short flights.

According to AtalayarMorocco’s decision is part a larger industrial modernisation plan that has been in place since the King Mohammed VI took power. With over 150 companies running factories in Morocco, the country is already Africa’s largest aerospace hub.

In a flash, you can go from Malaga to Marbella

Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 can carry four passengers, one pilot and has a range over 150 km and a cruise speed of 240km/h.

Plans in Spain could see air taxis operating routes such as Malaga–Marbella, Ronda, or even Ceuta and Melilla. Aciturri, the company that is proposing this deal, will design and provide all structural components. Morocco will benefit from Aciturri acquiring Casablanca’s GOAM Industrie – a manufacturer of high-precision engine parts.

As you can see, EPlaneAI reports, ‘Morocco’s involvement in this project is further strengthened by Aciturri’s acquisition of GOAM Industrie… positioning Morocco to actively participate in the rapidly expanding market for short-haul, on-demand flights.’

The air taxi industry is gaining global attention for its potential to revolutionize urban mobility. It offers quieter and cleaner alternatives to helicopters, especially for short journeys. Morocco is hoping to seize this moment and become an important player in Africa, and beyond.

However, challenges remain. The eVTOL industry is still a market with regulatory uncertainty. Governments need to establish standards for safety and certification as well as airspace management. ‘Regulatory frameworks for air taxi operations remain underdeveloped,’ notes EPlaneAI, adding that integrating advanced technologies across multiple countries adds complexity.

The competition is also on the rise. Joby Aviation, a US-based company, and other international players are expanding rapidly. This could put pressure on Morocco’s ambitions.

If the project is successful, it could drastically change how people commute between cities. Is the air taxi the future of commuters or is it just another tech dream?

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