Boeing-Owned Air Taxi Company To Launch In Miami
Wisk Aero, a Boeing subsidiary developing all-electric, self-flying air taxis, has selected Miami as one of its key launch markets.
The San Francisco-based company recently signed two memoranda of understanding — one with the Miami-Dade Aviation Department and another with the University of Miami’s Engineering Autonomy Mobility Initiative. These partnerships aim to bring autonomous air taxi services to South Florida.
“Miami has shown consistent support for autonomous air mobility, making it a natural choice for Wisk’s future operations,” said Wisk CEO Sebastien Vigneron in a statement.
In joining cities like Houston, Los Angeles County, and Brisbane, Australia, Miami becomes one of the first markets where Wisk plans to roll out its air taxi service.
Wisk’s agreement with the Miami-Dade Aviation Department focuses on building the infrastructure needed to support autonomous aircraft. This includes strategic planning, policy development, and identifying potential vertiport locations — designated areas where aircraft can take off and land. Possible sites for vertiports include Miami International Airport, Miami Executive Airport, and Opa-locka Executive Airport. Wisk will also offer technical support for infrastructure design and development.
In partnership with the University of Miami, Wisk will collaborate on research and development for advanced mobility technologies. The agreement also includes opportunities for business collaboration and access to grants supporting product innovation.
“Through our collaboration with Wisk, we are advancing core technologies like advanced sensors and next-generation battery systems that are essential to making advanced air mobility safe and scalable,” said Pratim Biswas, dean of the University of Miami College of Engineering.
Multiple companies are eyeing South Florida as a key market for electric aircraft, with plans to launch services before the end of the decade. Experts point to the region’s heavy traffic, sprawling suburbs, and limited public transportation as reasons why air taxis could thrive there. Proponents believe urban air mobility could dramatically improve transportation efficiency by offering faster, point-to-point travel. These electric aircraft also promise a greener alternative to gas-powered vehicles.
While air taxis are not yet approved for passenger service in the U.S., several companies are targeting a 2026 launch. In 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration finalized rules governing their operation and pilot training — a critical step toward commercial deployment.
Source: SFBJ
