Benidorm to Host Air Taxi & Drone Demonstration

Benidorm will host Europe’s first real-world urban air mobility demonstration, featuring an air taxi and drones operating together to showcase the future of aerial transportation and U-space integration By Joe Macey / 27 Feb 2025
Benidorm to Host Air Taxi & Drone Demonstration
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Benidorm, Spain, is set to make history as it hosts Europe’s first real-world demonstration of simultaneous flight between an air taxi and drones in an urban environment.

This event will take place on Thursday, 27th February, at 11:45am at Poniente Beach, next to the Club Náutico.

The demonstration is part of the European U-ELCOME project, which focuses on integrating air traffic management for drones through the U-space system. The event will simulate an emergency response scenario in a restricted area, showcasing the safe and efficient coordination of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in urban airspace.

A key highlight of the demonstration will be a 600kg unmanned air taxi, designed to carry passengers, flying alongside 12 drones. These drones, visible within the European U-space system, will perform simulated tasks such as rescue operations, surveillance, and delivery of goods. This initiative aims to validate the effectiveness of U-space services in ensuring the seamless integration of UAVs in city environments.

The U-ELCOME project is a multinational effort involving 51 partners from Spain, France, and Italy. Its goal is to develop and implement the first U-space services in Spain, contributing to the broader adoption of urban air mobility solutions across Europe.

The event will conclude with a project presentation at 12pm, providing deeper insights into the objectives and technological innovations behind U-ELCOME. As Europe moves toward a more connected and sustainable future, this demonstration marks a critical milestone in making urban air mobility a reality.

Posted by Joe Macey Joseph Macey is a Content Specialist at Advanced Air Mobility International, focusing on emerging aviation technologies since joining in 2022. He has particular expertise in eVTOLs, vertiports, and propulsion systems. A graduate of Falmouth University in Journalism, Joseph began his career in 2019 as a local reporter. His journalism experience sharpens both his reporting and interview skills, enabling him to deliver well-informed, authoritative insights on the latest trends in the aviation sector. Connect

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