The Paris City Council is fighting against a decree by the French government that would allow for the construction of a Vertiport on the Seine River in the city center. The Vertiport, which would be operated by the Paris airport operator Aeroports de Paris (ADP), would allow for the use of flying taxis, such as those produced by the German company Volocopter. The City Council is opposing the project due to concerns over its usefulness, cost, and environmental impact.

According to David Belliard, the deputy mayor of transportation for the city, the council is seeking an injunction against the decree. Belliard stated that the project is “useless, expensive, and anti-ecological.” He believes that it would be absurd to pay 130 euros for a 35 km journey. Dan Lert, another deputy mayor, described the project as an “absurdity for the super-rich.”

The Volocopter technology, which is still waiting for certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), would allow for demonstration flights to be held at the Vertiport. These flights would be free and would take place at a rate of two per hour, with a maximum of 900 flights per year. The Volocopter concept includes not only the flying taxis themselves but also a network of Vertiports, which are designed to meet the specifications of the EASA.

The Paris City Council’s opposition to the Vertiport project highlights the ongoing debate over the use of flying taxis in urban areas. While proponents of the technology argue that it could reduce traffic congestion and provide a more efficient mode of transportation, opponents are concerned about the potential noise, safety, and environmental impacts. As the technology continues to develop, it remains to be seen how these issues will be addressed and whether flying taxis will become a viable option for urban transportation.