Last but not least, Lotte Group has also formed a consortium – consisting of Lotte Rental Co., Lotte Engineering & Construction, California-based Mobius.energy and more. Chicago-based gyroplane manufacturer SKyworks Aeronautics will build the aircraft.
The South Korean government will launch a 1.6 trillion won ($1.3 billion) project to set basic standards for urban air mobility (UAM), or air taxi, as the country is preparing to commercialize the next-generation mobility service from 2025, according to sources with knowledge of the matter. Up to now, four Korean consortia, including a Hyundai Motor-led group, have joined the race for UAM services. Mobile carrier SK Telecom Co., Lotte Rental Co (includes Skyworks). and LG Uplus Corp., a wireless and internet service provider, have also formed their separate consortium to enter the UAM market.
Jeff Bartlett has joined Skyworks to head up the certification of its gyroplanes. The DOA expert believes these vehicles hold the potential to revolutionise flight in a diverse range of aircraft markets.
Mr. Bartlett has obtained no less than five Design Organization Approvals which is a clear demonstration of his in-depth knowledge of certification requirements
Skyworks has secured greater investment from GEM as it continues to work on developing its eGyro and VertiJet aircraft, targeting the UAM air taxi and helicopter markets respectively
“We are very excited about our diverse portfolio of gyro capabilities which we believe position us exceptionally well to provide safe, affordable and extremely capable vertical lift and progressive electric alternatives to nations across the globe.” Stated Brig. General (Ret.) John Michel, Skyworks Aeronautics Co-Founder and CEO.
Stephen Judd has joined Skyworks as director of global business development. His far reaching experience in many technological fields will bring welcome momentum to the company. Driven by a passion for technology, Judd has delivered services and products to customers around the world.
Stephen Judd brings a successful track record in delivering high profile sales in the global aerospace, defense and marine industries. - "Skyworks’ gyroplanes hold the potential to revolutionize flight in a diverse range of aircraft markets, offering customers huge advantages and many benefits”— Stephen Judd, Skyworks Director of Global Business Development
“The advanced air mobility space has seen rapid investment and growth over the last year,” said Steven Montes, defense electronics analyst, who covers the AAM market for Forecast International, an aerospace consultancy. “With the sheer number of aircraft designs floating around, joint efforts to get those aircraft into use will be the deciding factor in long-term success. Skyworks seems to understand that crucial task of the next half-decade.”
Skyworks and MintAir are joining forces with partners including Lotte Corporation to advance the commercial viability of UAM companies in South Korea. Seoul-based Lotte Corporation was established in 1967 and has over 90 affiliates across more than 30 countries, while Lotte Rental plans to develop a ground mobility platform offering transport and rental assets based on customer data from its 40 million members and customers. The consortium will conduct component tests and test flights of Skyworks’ eGyro in 2022-2023
