These aerial vehicles do not require a runway for taking-off and landing

When it comes to air transport modes, aeroplanes and helicopters are considered the best ones. However, they have new competition in the form of VTOL. Earlier, VTOL technology was limited to small drones and later, they began to blend with the traditional military planes. At present, VTOL technology is being used to change the commercial flying industry.

In this article, we will discuss this new technology that is here to change the way people fly.

What’s VTOL?

Vertical take-off or landing is what VTOL stands for, and this technology allows an aeroplane to take-off and land without the need of a runway. In short, the aeroplane will not require running a long distance for taking-off or landing. The aeroplane or aircraft can hover and land anywhere, quite similar to a helicopter. For example, the F35B plane is one of the best examples of VTOL aircraft.

Mechanism

A VTOL aircraft lifts itself with the help of rotors that are angled similar to ones seen on a helicopter. Once the VTOL reaches a certain altitude, the rotor’s angle is changed, and the VTOL moves forward.

In military VTOL aircraft, thrust (vector thrust planes) from the motor or engine is used to lift the aircraft. For example, the Harrier Jump Jet is an aircraft one can look at. Not to mention, it is analogous to the F35B.

Advantages

VTOLs can literally take-off or land anywhere, and that is the biggest advantage of this new kind of aircraft. It will not require a runway or a large airport, which will help in reducing the infrastructure cost. In smaller VTOLs, the engine is mostly an electric unit and hence; it reduces the cost of fuel and emits less pollution.

Commercial flying

It’s time to avoid taxis and book a VTOL because VTOLs are making their way to the streets. Taxi app giant Uber has been working hard to launch flying taxis and the world may see them in 2023. With the help of several automobile giants, Uber is planning to launch the service in major cities around the world. It’s hard to determine the cost per trip, but it will surely be faster than conventional taxis. Last but not least, the commercial flying industry is working hard to induct VTOLs and replace the traditional aeroplanes.