INTRO
Aviation has a long drawn history of innovation. Right from the invention of the kites in 5th century China to the mythical drawings of leonardo da vinci in 15th century of machines that can fly through air, humans have always dreamed of reaching for the skies.
Like any other form of transport and technology, once manned flight was achieved by the wright brothers in 1903 innovations and barriers were broken thick and fast.
In a period of time which equates to only a little more than one percent of human history, mankind transitioned from jumping from high places to remotely piloting aircraft on other planets
The first flight of wright brothers barely lasted12 seconds and covered only 120 feet. Fast forward to 1969 we had the first supersonic commerical aircraft the concorde starting its first flight which would eventually go on to fly at twice the speed of sound. To enable this mind bending progress in 6 decades designers, engineers made countless innovations in material sciences, aerodynamics, computer technologies, manufacturing processes, navigation, piloting, human factors and much more.
Some of the breakthrough innovations in aviation included
Fast forward to 2025 Aviation finds itself at an inflexion point yet again. This time with the advent of innovation being in the form of urban air mobility ( UAM) and electric vertical take off and landing aircrafts (EVTOL). Like any other revolution before it the world needs to innovate improvise and adapt to enable the successfull integration of this new form of technology.
Vertical take off and landing (VTOL) capablity from a commercial standpoint opens up a plethora of use cases and the challenges that come along with it.
AVIONICS
Starting from the front how do we upskill / retrain the current generation of pilots to transition to a new type of aircraft altogether. Two schools of thought that can come in to tackle this solution. One is we use existing avionic design as a base and then “reskin, modify” these design to enable an easier learning curve for existing pilots to transition from their conventional cockpits to those of an EVTOL. This would certainly enable quicker transition times, reduced training costs and presents an easier pathway to certification for the industry.
or we can start from scratch and come up an all new philosophy to redesign the avionics. This new age design can be for the next generation of new pilots who would have zero experience in a conventional cockpit and would be directly stepping into the controls of an EVTOL aircraft. Think of GenZ or Gen Alpha. This would surely be a more painfull process for all those involved and would certainly cost more with a far longer lead time for certification. However if having the training time to get your wings reduced from the average of 5 years down to 6 months is the goal then the UI of the avionics would need a greatly simplified design which would leverage the power of new fly by wire technologies along with new layers of automation that could be enabled by AI being introduced into the cockpit.
COCKPIT INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
Most if not all EVTOL crafts in development are single pilot aircrafts currently with all the signs being that they do have the option to be remotely piloted or autonomous flows at some point in the future These aircrafts provide designers a new set of challenges and opportunities to redesign the cockpit as we know it. How can we have a cockpit that can provide more visiblity to pilots during the VTOL and VFR (Visual Flight Rules ) phases of flight, what can be the new forms of crew alerting system (CAS) other than warnings displayed via UI. Other than the HUD Is there space for AR in the cockpit of the future ? Other than the HOTAS philosophy can we come up with a new standardized cockpit design which can enable pilots to be certified to the whole of the UAM space in general instead of being certified to a particular type or class of UAM ?
Most, if not all, EVTOL crafts currently in development are single-pilot aircraft, reflecting the industry’s current design philosophy. However, as the technology matures, these aircraft are expected to incorporate options for remote piloting or fully autonomous operations, presenting a glimpse into the aviation future. This transition introduces an entirely new set of challenges and opportunities for designers tasked with reimagining the cockpit as we know it. The evolution of the EVTOL cockpit requires an innovative approach that considers not only the technical demands of these aircraft but also the needs of pilots, operators, and eventually, the passengers who will trust this technology.
The first significant consideration is visibility. In the VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) phase of flight, as well as during operations governed by Visual Flight Rules (VFR), pilots require optimal situational awareness. Traditional cockpit designs in fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters may not be sufficient for the unique flight dynamics of EVTOLs. Designers must explore how the layout, positioning, and ergonomics of the cockpit can be enhanced to provide an unobstructed view of the surrounding environment, especially in urban settings where obstacles such as buildings, power lines, and other air traffic pose significant hazards.
Another critical area for innovation lies in Crew Alerting Systems (CAS). Traditional CAS designs rely heavily on visual and auditory warnings delivered through cockpit user interfaces (UI). However, as EVTOLs push the boundaries of aviation technology, there is an opportunity to redefine how critical information is conveyed to pilots. Could augmented reality (AR) overlays be used to provide a more intuitive and less intrusive way of delivering warnings and guidance? For instance, AR could highlight potential hazards in real-time or visualize optimal flight paths during complex urban operations.
In addition to AR, rethinking the Heads-Up Display (HUD) is essential. The HUD in current aircraft serves as a vital tool for pilots, but in the context of EVTOLs, its role could be expanded to include new functionalities tailored to the unique operational profiles of these aircraft. Designers might explore integrating AI-driven insights into the HUD, providing pilots with predictive analytics, such as real-time weather shifts, potential collision risks, or energy consumption estimates, all displayed in an easy-to-digest format.
Another critical question is whether the HOTAS (Hands-On Throttle and Stick) philosophy that dominates current cockpit design remains relevant in the EVTOL era. EVTOL aircraft are inherently different from traditional planes and helicopters in terms of operation and control. A departure from HOTAS might allow for a more innovative, ergonomic, and intuitive interface that reduces the cognitive load on pilots.
Beyond individual aircraft, the industry could benefit from the development of a standardized cockpit design that extends across the entire UAM (Urban Air Mobility) sector. Unlike traditional aviation, where pilots are certified for specific aircraft types, EVTOL pilots could potentially be certified to operate a broader range of vehicles if their cockpits share standardized features and control layouts. This would simplify training, reduce operational costs, and improve pilot versatility. Designing such a universal cockpit would require collaboration across manufacturers, regulators, and operators to establish common guidelines while still allowing for differentiation in individual aircraft designs.
Finally, as these single-pilot configurations transition towards remote piloting or autonomy, designers must consider how to create cockpits that cater to hybrid operational modes. For example, a remotely piloted EVTOL might require interfaces that allow ground operators to seamlessly take over control during specific scenarios, such as emergencies or during dense air traffic situations. Autonomous operations, on the other hand, might demand entirely new philosophies in cockpit design—transforming them into monitoring stations or removing them altogether to maximize space for passengers or cargo.
The evolution of EVTOL cockpit design is a daunting but exciting frontier. It challenges traditional notions of aircraft design and opens the door to revolutionary ideas that could redefine aviation for the 21st century and beyond. By addressing visibility, crew alerting systems, interface design, standardization, and hybrid operational requirements, the industry has the potential to set new benchmarks for safety, efficiency, and usability in the age of urban air mobility.
PASSENGER EXPERIENCE
As of 2025, 99% of people who have travelled by air in a commercial airliner have never set afoot in EVTOL craft. Incentivizing passengers to adopt and stick to using this mode of transport can be the key factor for determining the success of this industry as a whole. Financial models needs to be figured out based on geographies, running cost of EVTOL aircrafts need to be reduced. Use cases and target customers can be different for different types of EVTOL crafts in development. Some EVTOL in development right now seem to be targeting the democratization of travel by EVTOL whereasothers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. Designing the passenger experience for either ends of the spectrum plays a critical role to ensure success of all players entering the EVTOL space. Do we pick up the car experience and relabel it as the flying car or do we dive deep and make most of this 3 dimensional way of commuting and craft experiences around it?
As of 2025, 99% of people who have traveled by air in a commercial airliner have never set foot in an EVTOL craft. This highlights a significant challenge and opportunity for the industry: how to bridge the gap between curiosity and adoption. Incentivizing passengers to embrace and remain loyal to this mode of transport will be a key factor in determining the overall success of this emerging industry. Building this trust and interest will require a combination of innovative approaches in pricing, marketing, and overall user experience.
First, financial models will need to be tailored to specific geographies and demographics. Different regions may present unique challenges, such as population density, infrastructure readiness, and economic disparities, all of which will affect the affordability and accessibility of EVTOL services. Reducing the running costs of EVTOL aircraft is paramount. This will involve optimizing energy consumption, extending battery lifespans, and improving maintenance processes. Subsidies or government-backed initiatives may also play a pivotal role in offsetting costs, especially in regions aiming to position EVTOL as part of their sustainable urban mobility plans.
The use cases and target customers for EVTOL crafts will likely vary significantly. Some EVTOLs under development aim to democratize air travel, providing affordable and accessible transportation for the masses. These models could replace or complement existing urban and suburban commuting options, offering time-saving alternatives to gridlocked roads. Conversely, other EVTOL developers are targeting a luxury market, emphasizing exclusivity, high-end features, and personalized services. For example, luxury EVTOLs could offer premium airport shuttles or scenic leisure tours for affluent customers. Designing the passenger experience to cater to these diverse ends of the spectrum will be critical in establishing a foothold across market segments.
The passenger experience itself must be thoughtfully crafted to ensure it is not only functional but also memorable and appealing. For EVTOLs aiming to democratize air travel, creating a seamless and efficient experience is essential. From straightforward booking processes to comfortable boarding and disembarking systems, passengers should feel that their transition to EVTOL travel is natural and stress-free. On the other end of the spectrum, luxury EVTOL experiences might focus on unique, personalized features—custom seating configurations, noise-canceling interiors, and panoramic glass cockpits offering breathtaking views.
A pivotal design question emerges: do we replicate the familiar car experience, rebranding it as the "flying car," or do we take full advantage of the three-dimensional freedom offered by EVTOL technology? By embracing this new way of commuting, designers and developers have the opportunity to craft transformative passenger experiences that go beyond traditional notions of travel. From augmented reality (AR) interfaces providing interactive cityscapes during flights to immersive in-flight entertainment tailored to individual passengers, the possibilities are vast. These innovations could redefine how people perceive and engage with travel, making EVTOL more than just a mode of transportation—it could become an experience in itself.
Moreover, passenger education and engagement will be vital. Given that most people are unfamiliar with EVTOLs, initial adoption may be slow due to fear of the unknown. Addressing these concerns through transparent communication about safety measures, pilot training, and operational standards will help build trust. Public demonstrations, free trial flights, or bundled pricing models could serve as incentives to encourage hesitant passengers to try EVTOL for the first time.
Ultimately, passenger adoption will hinge on striking a balance between familiarity and innovation. By providing a reliable, safe, and enjoyable experience—whether for daily commutes, special occasions, or luxury travel—EVTOL developers can gradually transform public perception and build a robust, enduring market for this revolutionary technology.
AUTONOMOUS ADOPTION
For a large segment of potential passengers, if not all, the concept of boarding an aircraft with no pilot onboard can be an intimidating prospect. The very notion of entrusting one’s safety to an autonomous system operating in a three-dimensional environment introduces a new level of psychological unease. While it is true that by the time autonomous EVTOLs become mainstream, many of us will likely have had some exposure to autonomous transportation—be it through a self-driving Tesla navigating city streets or an unmanned metro efficiently shuttling passengers along the airport route in Barcelona—the leap to autonomous aviation represents a fundamentally different experience.
What sets this experience apart is the inherent three-dimensionality of the journey. Unlike cars, trains, or boats, where a mechanical failure typically results in the vehicle coming to a stop, an issue in an aircraft can have far more catastrophic implications. The thought of being in an aircraft thousands of feet above the ground, moving at high speed, with no human pilot to make split-second, life-saving decisions in the event of an emergency, can evoke a visceral sense of vulnerability. This fear is not unfounded; for decades, we have associated air safety with the skill and expertise of highly trained pilots, capable of making decisions under immense pressure.
Add to this the cultural and media-driven perception of pilots as heroes—think of Maverick from Top Gun or Captain Sully’s miraculous landing on the Hudson River—and it’s clear why the absence of such a figure in the cockpit could give even the bravest passengers pause. The image of an empty cockpit, devoid of human hands guiding the aircraft, amplifies the anxiety of a system failure. It’s one thing to trust a machine to parallel park a car or navigate a subway system, but trusting it to safely guide a flying vehicle in complex airspace, potentially through turbulent weather or technical malfunctions, is another matter entirely.
This psychological hurdle creates a significant challenge for the EVTOL industry and opens up an entirely new dimension of problems to solve at the system design level. How do fleet operators, manufacturers, and the broader aviation ecosystem build trust between autonomous systems and the passengers they aim to serve? Trust is not built overnight; it is earned through consistent performance, transparency, and education. People need to understand how autonomous systems work, their safety protocols, redundancy mechanisms, and the extensive testing they undergo before being deployed.
Another aspect to consider is the emotional reassurance that passengers derive from seeing and interacting with a pilot. The presence of a skilled human operator provides a sense of accountability and control that machines, no matter how advanced, currently lack. Removing the human element requires designing systems that can replicate or even surpass this sense of security. For instance, onboard AI systems could be designed to provide real-time updates to passengers, explaining what is happening during the flight in a way that feels personal and reassuring, much like a pilot addressing the cabin over the intercom.
However, even with these efforts, initial adoption rates for autonomous EVTOLs are likely to be slow. Early adopters might be technology enthusiasts or individuals with prior exposure to cutting-edge innovations, but for the general population, a significant barrier remains. As per preliminary surveys—though exact numbers are yet to be confirmed—only a small percentage of passengers currently express willingness to board an aircraft without a pilot. This resistance highlights the critical need for extensive public education campaigns, showcasing the safety, reliability, and benefits of autonomous flight.
Moreover, extensive safety demonstrations, perhaps akin to the first commercial airline flights or the rollout of early self-driving cars, could play a pivotal role. These could involve real-world scenarios where autonomous systems handle emergencies with precision, showing the public that the technology is capable of not only matching but surpassing human performance in safety-critical situations.
Building trust will also require an unprecedented level of collaboration across the aviation industry, government regulators, and civic bodies. Regulators must set stringent certification standards for autonomous systems, while manufacturers and operators must meet or exceed these benchmarks to demonstrate their commitment to passenger safety. In time, as autonomous EVTOLs prove their reliability through millions of safe flights, the perception of risk will diminish, much like it has for commercial airliners over the decades.
Ultimately, addressing passenger apprehension and fostering trust in autonomous EVTOLs is not just about technology—it’s about bridging the psychological gap between fear and acceptance. By tackling this challenge head-on, the industry can pave the way for a future where autonomous air travel becomes as routine and trusted as hailing a cab or boarding a train.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTEVTOL | UAM players are completely dependent upon either the inclusion of new infra in cities and airports or repurposing existing infra for facilitating UAMS as a part of the urban landscape. Vertiports are at the nascent stages of development with plenty of room for innovation. Hosting EVTOL aircrafts in a city bring about a myriad of challenges that need to be resolved. Charging stations need to be designed and integrated into vertiports, power for charging these aircrafts needs to be sourced sustainably if we are serious about hitting our sustainability goals, air corridors in the skies above a city need to be mapped out and developed. Micro weather stations to provide granular wind and weather data in a city need to be developed to enable safer flights over a densely populated city. Bird strikes with an EVTOL craft can be a crippling problem that needs to be solved and contingency management solutions need to be developed on a case by case basis.
All these problems cannot be solved by a single party alone. This would need joint collaboration between the industry, the governing bodies and the civic authorities to ensure Urban Air Mobility is democratized in densely populated cities.
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