Urban-Air Port (UAP) has released its next-gen vertiport AirOne, which brings together UAP's advanced robotic systems and LG Electronics' AI-powered technologies.

In March 2024, UAP and LG agreed to power up a new generation of vertiports, an alliance that signalled the global electronics giant's move into the advanced mobility field. Together, they now present their fully digitally integrated next-generation vertiport. It is, they say, the world's most advanced solution; the first to incorporate AI-enabled systems, and merges cutting-edge technology with customer-centric designs.

LG and UAP are developing modular stations that integrate an ecosystem of advanced digital solutions, including adaptive LED signage and transparent OLED displays, interactive kiosks and comprehensive digital management and control systems.

From optimised processes to immersive art installations and seamless digital interfaces, the modular system brings a smarter, more engaging and personalised travel experience. The design includes features such as biometric check-in, interactive lounges, EV-charging hubs and retail stands with dynamic LED walls that change content based on occupancy, improving economic and spatial efficiency.

Recognising that market viability is the cornerstone of any transport infrastructure, AirOne is commercially ready. Its fully integrated architecture and modular system are designed to support early entry into service capacities, while also future-proofing demand for more VTOLs and increased throughput as the industry matures. It is viable, affordable, scalable and the most efficient way to launch an electric and/or hybrid VTOL service.

The Urban-Air Port Vertical Airfield robotics system provides the highest degree of operational efficiency and capacity, providing operators with a highly sophisticated infrastructure stack within an 80 per cent smaller footprint, at 50 per cent less cost to install, and profitable operations with pay-back times vastly faster than any competing system. With in-built LG technologies, operators are easily able to realise non-aeronautical revenues on the Urban-Air Port's very small footprint.

“Our unique technology, anchored by our robotic Vertical Airfield and stacked hangar system, enables us to design, build and operate our vertiports at a much lower CapEx than a traditional ground-based, space-hungry horizontal vertiport. Our Vertical Airfield technology allows us to secure sites up to 80 per cent smaller, dramatically cutting costs, but also enhancing the passenger throughput, experience and safety,” says UAP CEO Andrea Wu. “With built-in systems, we can reduce the effects of eVTOL downwash and outwash. This means we can install our vertiports across our networks in urban locations safely. With LG, we are proud to lead the advanced air mobility infrastructure sector into the AI and robotics era. We have always led the field in innovation; this is no different.”

Non-aeronautical revenue in this market will be just as important to overall revenue as it is in conventional airports, helping to counter operational costs and facilitate affordable eVTOL travel for all. Accordingly, UAP has developed the beginnings of a commercial ecosystem under the banner of Urban-Air Choice, controlled via an app. By partnering with some of the world's biggest brands and utilising LG's advanced digital solutions, it will serve the aspirations of a new generation of travellers with a more connected, intuitive, seamless and environmentally responsible experience, especially when it comes to retail and hospitality.

The digital efficiency of Urban-Air Choice will enable commercial offers and services to evolve with passenger needs, avoiding the inconvenience of the physical and operational limitations currently experienced in other sectors.

“Our partners at LG are aligned with our vision: to give customers the control and flexibility they expect when they engage with our retail partners and services. By harnessing the functionality of the innovative digital solutions of LG, we can go way beyond traditional, cumbersome commercial offers, leveraging the full potential of non-aeronautical revenue opportunities that can exist within our infrastructure. Urban-Air Choice will be able to complement the physical offer with digital solutions,” says UAP chief retail officer Keith Hunter.

The collaboration will leverage innovative data-driven management systems, including LG CLOi Robots to enhance operational efficiency; LG Business Cloud Solutions for remote management of digital signage; LG's advanced energy storage solutions for reliable and efficient UAM operations; and a host of control room innovations, ranging from comprehensive monitoring and data collection for improved flight bookings to smart building management.

“This next-generation vertiport design showcases the latest technological advancements to create a complete system that is modular and scalable, with an unrivalled passenger and operator experience. Our AI-powered technologies will help convert footfall to revenue and ensure maximum efficiency of operations,” says Seamus Walsh, enterprise manager for energy, industry and mobility, LG. “We've optimised every modular element to combine the most cutting-edge technology while retaining a very human interactivity and emotional heartbeat.”

“Future eVTOL operations will demand fast charging capabilities of multiple megawatts to meet industry expectations for aircraft turnaround times, making the charging infrastructure solution one of the most crucial elements,” adds Lawrence Blakeley, non-executive advisor, Urban-Air Port. “By partnering, UAP and LG are combining their strengths as world leaders to offer a top-tier solution to these operational challenges. LG's cutting-edge operational systems, paired with UAP's patented AirOne solution, will transform the AAM industry.”

“Today, we become the world's first AI & robotics vertiport company,” conclude Ricky Sandhu, founder and executive chairman of Urban-Air Port. “This combination of design, technology and user experience is unrivalled and sets a new global benchmark for advanced air mobility eVTOL and vertiport operators; we are delivering the new gold standard that presents a viable, affordable but truly sustainable solution to ensure this industry can take flight profitably.”