Advancing Urban Air Mobility: Collaborative Excellence and Infrastructure Initiatives by DLR

Abstract

Urban air mobility (UAM) promises transformative solutions to the increasing challenges of urban transport. However, the realization of UAM requires overcoming multiple challenges that include safety, legal frameworks, social acceptance and environmental sustainability. To meet these challenges and support the widespread introduction of UAM, innovative approaches are required for the development and experimental testing of concepts and technologies. Given these requirements and in order to find a holistic solution, close collaboration between different stakeholders is essential. This article highlights the collaboration possibilities of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in the field of UAM. The HorizonUAM project used an integrated System of Systems approach to model and optimize complex interactions between UAM components. Particular attention was paid to promoting collaborative approaches to vehicle design and the use of model-based systems engineering methods to develop safe architectures for electric vertical take-off and landing systems (eVTOL). DLR also supports the development and integration of UAM technologies by creating experimental spaces and first-class research infrastructures for testing, development and cooperation in the airport environment, namely the National Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Magdeburg-Cochstedt. DLR is also working on the realization of a regulatory sandbox for U-space and is investing in the development of vertiport research infrastructures. Projects such as VERTIFIED serve to evaluate and validate new concepts for the integration of air mobility concepts in urban and airport environments. These endeavors promote cooperation between different stakeholders, including government agencies, industry and the public. As a cooperation partner, DLR contributes with its infrastructure and innovative approaches to the realization of efficient and sustainable urban air mobility.