Researchers from the Institute of Aeronautics Technology (ITA) and VertiMob Infrastructure have developed a simulator to replicate landings, takeoffs, and passenger flow of future flying cars at São José dos Campos Airport, located in the interior of São Paulo. This project aims for an embarkation time of up to 15 minutes.
The first phase of the project was recently completed, and the results were submitted to the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). The responsible parties are now planning to expand the tests to a physical vertiport.
Study of eVTOL Operations
To understand how eVTOL operations would function, the team created a 'digital twin' of the airport. This model simulates various scenarios, taking into account variables such as wind, temperature, rain, obstacles, and their respective trajectories. The system also assists in calculating the necessary safety areas, as a gust of wind, for example, can modify the aircraft's position and require a specific protection zone.
Professor Marcelo Guterres, from the Civil Engineering Division of ITA, clarified that the development is a 'digital twin, a set of simulations very close to what the real operation will be like.' This work integrates the first phase of a Vertiport Regulatory Sandbox, conducted in collaboration with the airport, with the goal of evaluating eVTOL operations under different conditions before starting practical tests.
In addition to aerial aspects, the simulator maps the entire passenger journey within the terminal, from arrival to boarding. The project schedule foresees that this entire process will be completed in a maximum period of 15 minutes. The model also allows for identifying potential delays and measuring the impact of an operational failure on subsequent flights.
Next Phases and Regulation
Among the analyzed elements, the second phase includes the construction of a vertiport to replicate, in reality, parts of the tests conducted in the simulator. The exact location is still under deliberation, with two options being considered: one near the airport's 'wind rose' or another adjacent to the terminal and the apron.
Bruno Limoeiro, CEO of VertiMob, stated that the goal is to build the terminal by the end of the year, although the definition of the location depends on negotiations with ANAC. The intention is for this vertiport to eventually serve as a commercial point for the airport.
ANAC advises that vertiports intended for eVTOLs should incorporate, with adjustments, the minimum safety requirements used in helicopter operations. As mentioned in the text, ANAC itself recognizes that the full application of these standards may incur costs higher than strictly necessary, given the nature of electric aircraft.
The first phase generated approximately 800 pages of studies, material that will be evaluated by the agency, which may request additional work. The completion of the next stage is expected by the end of 2027, but this deadline remains subject to change. It is important to note that the current project does not imply the immediate start of commercial operation of flying cars in São José dos Campos, as practical tests, regulatory evaluation, and the proper certification of the eVTOLs are still required.