Air Taxis move a step closer for Gold Coast
International company Skyports Infrastructure has signed a deal to work with the City of Gold Coast to work towards the start air taxi services in the region.
The Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed on Wednesday at council chambers, will involve both organisations to jointly investigate “a pathway to future commercial operations, defining the commercial, economic and community benefits”.
As a part of the agreement, Skyports will lead the development of the so-called “vertiport network and the supporting vertiport infrastructure”.
The two groups say the potential benefits for air mobility services on the Gold Coast are strong.
Skyports says the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, powered by a strong tourism economy and a commitment to innovative urban development.
The company has started talks with potential landlord partners including Gold Coast Airport.
“Through the planned network, a 45-minute drive between Gold Coast Airport and Broadbeach can be reduced to a 5-7 minute flight,’’ a joint statement released on Wednesday says.
Skyports operates the world’s busiest commercial heliport in New and is planning to open more “vertiport networks” in Dubia and Abu Dhabi this year. It is also developing Korea’s first vertiport network in Jeju Island, which is expected to start commercial operations in 2028.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said he wanted the Gold Coast to be at the cutting edge of technology.
“My discussions about transport opportunities with Skyports on my previous trips to Singapore and Dubai are now coming into fruition,’’ Cr Tate said.
“Having seen the Skyports operations in Dubai firsthand, I can tell you that air taxis are the future of transport.
“It’s no longer science fiction, it is reality and I want the Gold Coast to be at the forefront of this transport revolution. I would like to see the Skyports landing pads built as soon as possible so we can have everything ready for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said they were keen to explore potential partnerships in the region.
“Discussions with Skyports Infrastructure around Advanced Air mobility naturally aligns with our 2024 Gold Coast Airport Master Plan vision – one centred on sustainability, innovation and seamless connectivity for our passengers and wider community,” she said
Skyports head of Asia Pacific, Yun Yuan Tay, said the collaboration reflected a shared ambition to deliver innovative, future-ready transport for the Gold Coast.
“By combining Skyports’ global expertise in vertiport development with the City’s forward-thinking vision, we are laying the groundwork for a connected, efficient and sustainable mobility network that will enhance accessibility for residents and visitors alike,” he said.
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