PHOENIX - A new survey by Honeywell Aerospace in Phoenix found that nearly all U.S. airline passengers (98%) would consider using an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, commonly known as an air taxi, for airport transportation. The survey, conducted among 1,000 U.S. adults who flew at least five round-trip flights in the past year, also showed that 79% of respondents would travel more frequently if air taxis were available.
Reducing overall travel time was the most significant factor in respondents' interest, with 47% citing the ability to avoid traffic as a key motivator. Other considerations included convenience (61%), cost (61%), environmental impact (44%), and novelty (44%).
"Anyone who travels regularly knows that the journey to and from the airport often adds unwelcome time, cost, and hassle to the overall trip," said Dave Shilliday, vice president and general manager of Advanced Air Mobility at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. "Air taxis can offer a safe, fast, and innovative alternative to traditional transport methods."
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Millennials expressed the most enthusiasm for air taxis (65%), compared to 58% of all respondents. Frequent travelers—those who took more than 10 flights in the past year—were also more interested (67%) than those who flew less frequently (56%). Business travelers showed greater interest (60%) than leisure travelers (45%).
The primary use case for air taxis, cited by 41% of respondents, is travel between cities within 100 miles of each other. Other potential applications include transport from suburban airports to city centers (31%) and connecting flights in nearby cities (28%).
Safety remains a primary concern, with 65% of respondents emphasizing its importance. Honeywell, which develops aviation technologies for advanced air mobility, is working with regulators and industry partners to support the integration and certification of next-generation aircraft.
Wakefield Research conducted the survey between 5 December and 12 December 2024, using an email invitation and an online questionnaire.
