UrbanX Air vows electric Miami commuter flights in 2026
Written by Abraham Galvan for Miami Today on November 28, 2023
UrbanX Air has plans to bring Urban Air Mobility (UAM) to Miami by launching electric commuter flights throughout South Florida.
Beginning in 2026, the new flight initiative marks a pivotal initial phase in making electric air commuting a reality for South Florida residents, the firm announced this week. The global crossing airline is collaborating with state officials, infrastructure, energy and technology providers to establish the necessary framework for launching electric vertical takeoff and landing eVTOL aircraft flights.
The flights will help commuters navigate short distances, avoiding traffic congestion and improving travel times while providing a safer, faster and more sustainable mode of transportation, the company said.
In 2022, GlobalX, operators of UrbanX Air, signed a letter of intent to purchase 200 eVTOLs from Eve, a leader in global eVTOL development. With the delivery of its first 10 eVTOLs expected in 2026, UrbanX says it plans to be the first to bring innovative aircraft technology to South Florida and revolutionize urban transportation in the region.
“Urban Air Mobility has the capacity to transform the way people move throughout the Miami metropolitan area, and we are proud to lead the way to bring this technology to the region and ensure it benefits our entire community,” said Lucy Morillo, president & CEO of UrbanX.
With an initial route network proposed to cover critical areas in South Florida, UrbanX says it aims to provide residents with a quick, economical, and lower-carbon means of commuting in dense urban environments, such as Miami-Dade County. UrbanX and Eve are collaborating to identify origin and destination locations to establish key routes throughout the region.
The eVTOL aircraft, with its 100% electric design and a range of 60 miles, is well-equipped to complete a variety of UAM flights throughout the Miami area, ensuring efficient and sustainable transportation options, the company said.
“The introduction of these eVTOLs marks a significant milestone in achieving our vision to bring all-electric and noise-reduced air travel to life for South Florida residents and tourists alike,” said Ed Wegel, chairman and CEO of GlobalX. “Adding eVTOLs to our growing fleet provides us the ability to offer clients international, domestic, regional, and intra-city travel options.”
UrbanX says its mission is to provide safe, reliable, and efficient, zero-carbon transport by, human piloted eVTOLs to Miami-Dade County under a social enterprise business model. Through collaboration with local governments, UrbanX says it will extend benefits not only to passengers but also to the surrounding communities. This includes meeting the demands of corporations, airports, airlines, cruise lines, as well as public agencies and hospitals in need of rapid transportation, such as medical transport. Part of this, the company says, includes partnering with local governments to offer discounted rides for services within the community, such as medical transport or senior care.
UrbanX says it is in the process of establishing an advisory board to serve as a think tank of community leaders and industry experts offering insights and strategic guidance.
“We are looking forward to collaborating with the team at UrbanX to bring eVTOL operations to Miami-Dade County,” said Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “By leveraging the latest aviation technology and providing an exceptional customer experience, UrbanX will be well positioned to change the way people commute and travel in South Florida.”
