COMPANY OVERVIEW: EVERTISKY

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Chicago, eVertiSKY is a single-source provider of ground-space and airspace infrastructure for commercial low-altitude airspace. The company is dedicated to supporting the integration of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) services within urban environments. Solutions offered include ready-to-use data, vertiport design, and airspace management, all tailored to meet regulatory standards and urban requirements for commercially successful UAM project deployment. This strategic focus ensures that eVertiSKY’s solutions are compliant with current regulations and aligned to the specific requirements of urban settings, facilitating seamless adoption and operation of UAM services.

APPROACH

• PLAN: eVertiSKY identifies optimal sites for vertiport development, integrates real-world data, assesses UAM feasibility, and designs the necessary infrastructure. This phase includes the UAM Feasibility Study (FS) that ensures a thorough understanding of the project’s feasibility and lays the foundation for successful implementation.
• TEST: The company evaluates operational safety, efficiency, and community response through theoretical models and simulations within the UAM Living Labs. This step involves testing designs, systems, and stakeholder integrations to address risk management and collect feedback.
• SIMULATE: eVertiSKY conducts digital simulations to predict the impact and efficiency of UAM operations. These simulations help to fine-tune operational strategies, optimize performance, and predict potential challenges, ensuring smooth integration of UAM services.
• ACTIVATE: Upon extensive testing and community involvement, eVertiSKY launches UAM services. This phase involves the actual implementation of UAM operations, leveraging the knowledge gained in previous stages to ensure a successful and sustainable service rollout.

REQUIREMENT

The core mission of eVertiSKY is to create an Urban Air Mobility (UAM) ecosystem that fosters the development of UAM operations while promoting economic and sustainable growth in surrounding areas. Implementing a comprehensive network of vertiports is essential for facilitating seamless UAM integration and significantly reducing travel time. This strategic approach aims to attract new businesses, create numerous job opportunities, and improve overall accessibility for freight and passengers. Initially, the company will focus on goods transportation, enhancing the efficiency and speed of cargo delivery, addressing current logistics challenges, and laying the groundwork for future expansion. Over time, eVertiSKY plans to scale its operations by expanding into passenger transport services. This phased approach ensures compliance with necessary operational and safety standards and community acceptance, ultimately paving the way to a fully integrated UAM ecosystem.

INDUSTRY CHALLENGES AND ENABLING FACTORS

The Urban Air Mobility (UAM) industry is set to transform urban transportation with advanced air mobility solutions. Developing a robust and sustainable UAM ecosystem requires overcoming significant challenges in terms of regulatory compliance, technological advances, workforce development, infrastructure scalability, and public acceptance.
Addressing these areas is essential for the successful deployment and operation of UAM services.

• Regulatory Compliance
Regulatory challenges include ensuring safety through comprehensive air traffic management protocols and emergency response strategies. Additionally, noise mitigation involves designing facilities to limit sound propagation and using quieter vehicles. Privacy issues must also be addressed by ensuring that data collected during UAM operations complies with privacy laws.
• Technological Progress
Technological advances are essential to enhance battery reliability and aircraft efficiency, improving operational effectiveness. Infrastructure development focuses on vertiport design using real-time data to hone infrastructure design, requirements, and operational procedures. Integrating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems supports sustainable growth. Implementing renewable energy technologies is vital to achieving energy independence and reducing operational costs.
• Workforce Development
Workforce development is another critical area. Ventures such as the eVertiSKY partnership with the Chicago Urban League provide training for remote pilot certification under FAA Part 107 regulations, ensuring a steady supply of qualified staff to manage and operate UAM systems.
• Public Acceptance
Public acceptance is essential to the success of UAM services. Engaging with citizens and municipal authorities through initiatives such as the eVertiSKY Chicago 2023 UAM Feasibility Study and the UAM Living Lab project is key. These efforts gather feedback and align projects with community needs and expectations, fostering a supportive environment for UAM integration.

By systematically addressing regulatory, technological, workforce, and infrastructure challenges while prioritizing public acceptance, the UAM industry aims to establish a sustainable and widely accepted ecosystem.

CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

eVertiSKY is an integral part of the NASA UTM API Specification Design focus group, a key component of the ASTM Working Group that is developing the global traffic standard for commercial drones and eVTOLs. The primary objective of eVertiSKY’s participation in the ASTM UTM API Design Specifications Focus Group is to contribute to the development of standardized API specifications that facilitate seamless integration and interoperability of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems.
This participation aims to ensure that these standards serve as a baseline for capturing PNT data for the open UAM data standard as well as their commercial software offerings being developed for departments of transportation and NAS users. These SDA platforms include the eSkyBridge City API, which is used to publish UAM operations involving vertiport activities and assets such as MRO facilities through a cyberinfrastructure of robust, scalable, and secure API frameworks. By participating in this focus group, eVertiSKY seeks to promote industry-wide best practices, enhance data sharing capabilities, and support the implementation of advanced UTM features that enhance the safety, efficiency, and reliability of urban air mobility ecosystems.
The first phase involves the identification of potential sites for vertiport development. This process requires a thorough analysis of urban landscape, existing infrastructure, and logistic needs. By integrating data from various sources, eVertiSKY assesses the feasibility of UAM in different urban settings, ensuring that each selected site meets the specific requirements for successful UAM operations. Site identification is integral to the development of eSkyBridge, a system of aerial “expressways” that connect vertiports within and between cities, enhancing the reach and efficiency of UAM services.
A key component of this approach is the implementation of eSkyBridge Software Defined Airspace (SDA). SDA leverages an active digital twin of the intended UAM-affected area for dynamic airspace management, enabling flexible and effective use that can adapt to changing demands and conditions. In parallel, ground-based sensing technologies enhance situational awareness and safety by providing real-time data on airspace conditions, activities, and assets. The integration of SDA with city command and control functionality ensures that cities can effectively manage UAM traffic while maintaining safety and efficiency.
eVertiSKY employs the 4-Dimensional Trajectory Reference Box (4DTRB) system. 4DTRB is essential to identify UAM corridors and define the Commercial Low Altitude Airspace (CLAA). This system provides a structured approach to airspace management, ensuring that UAM operations are conducted safely and efficiently within designated corridors. The integration of 4DTRB helps minimize conflicts and optimize the use of available airspace, facilitating the integration of UAM into urban transportation systems.
Once the basic planning and site identification are completed, the focus shifts to testing. eVertiSKY conducts extensive assessments of operational safety, efficiency, and community response. These tests involve real-world pilot programs that simulate UAM operations, enabling the identification and mitigation of potential issues. Community involvement in this phase is essential to address concerns and gather feedback, ensuring that UAM services are well received and beneficial to local residents.
Following successful testing, eVertiSKY utilizes digital simulations to predict the operational impact and efficiency of UAM. These simulations provide valuable insights into potential challenges and opportunities, enabling optimized performance and readiness for implementation. Simulations consider various scenarios and variables, helping to fine-tune operational strategies and enhance overall system resilience. The knowledge gained from these simulations is critical for fine-tuning eSkyBridge, ensuring that air “expressways” operate smoothly and effectively.
The final stage is the activation of UAM services. This involves the launch of UAM operations based on rigorous testing and simulation results. eVertiSKY ensures that all aspects of the operation are fine-tuned and ready for real-world implementation. Continuous monitoring and community engagement remain an integral part of this phase to ensure success and adaptation to evolving needs. The activation phase also involves integrating UAM operations into the city’s command and control systems, ensuring seamless coordination and management of UAM traffic.
With the integration of these technologies and methodologies eVertiSKY creates a robust and scalable UAM framework. This strategic approach provides cities with the necessary tools and data to seamlessly integrate UAM into their existing transportation infrastructure.
The emphasis on PNT data acquisition and utilization proves eVertiSKY’s commitment to enhancing the safety, efficiency, and scalability of UAM networks. This comprehensive plan not only addresses current urban mobility challenges but also lays the foundation for future advances in urban air mobility, making eSkyBridge a vital component of the urban transportation ecosystem.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
LIVING LABS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The UAM Living Labs initiative is central to eVertiSKY’s strategy for developing and activating Urban Air Mobility transportation economies and operations through a data-driven approach. Practical integration of UAM technologies ensures that projects meet the specific needs of cities and their populations, from economic development to workforce development, strategizing the shift from traditional transport into UAM.
Engaging local authorities, community members, and businesses in every stage of the project aligns it with regional development goals and community expectations. By working closely with city planners, municipal governments, and local businesses, eVertiSKY builds trust and ensures that the UAM infrastructure supports local economic and social needs. Community members participate through public consultations and forums, where their feedback and concerns are addressed, leading to more community-centric designs and operations.

DATA-DRIVEN PLANNING AND ESKYBRIDGE CITY API INTEGRATION

Data collected from the living labs, which are testbeds for UAM technologies and operations within a real-world environment, provides valuable insights into the operational dynamics of UAM, including traffic patterns, noise levels, energy use, and public acceptance. The analysis of this data guides the implementation of UAM projects, ensuring they are efficient, safe, and well received by the public. Integrating stakeholder collaboration and data-driven planning guarantees that UAM projects are technically and economically viable and socially useful.
Data collected in the UAM Living Labs also plays a role in feeding the eSkyBridge City API, a central data hub with accurate and comprehensive data ensuring that transportation departments have access to vital information, including real-time updates on UAM operations, traffic management, and environmental impacts. This integration optimizes urban mobility solutions, improves coordination between transportation modes, and enhances overall city management. The API serves as a backbone for the digital infrastructure, supporting seamless and efficient UAM integration into city structures.

FUNDING MODELS FOR VERTIPORT DEVELOPMENT

Employing different funding models enables eVertiSKY to support vertiport development and ensure financial sustainability and scalability. One key approach is the use of Urban Air Mobility Real Estate Investment Trusts (UAM REITs) that pool investor funds to acquire and develop properties designated for UAM vertiport use. Attracting substantial capital by leveraging the real estate market provides a strong financial foundation for vertiport projects.
Municipal bonds are another funding source, allowing cities or municipalities to issue bonds to raise additional funds for vertiport projects, supplementing the capital raised through REITs. Additionally, public-private partnerships (PPPs) foster collaboration between public entities and the UAM REIT, sharing investment risks and benefits to accelerate vertiport development.
These financial strategies ensure the project’s viability and facilitate its scalability and expansion. By ensuring a solid financial foundation eVertiSKY effectively implements a comprehensive network of vertiports, laying the foundation for widespread UAM integration. The financial models adopted allow for phased development, starting with the acquisition and development of key sites and gradually expanding the network to meet growing demand.

ECONOMIC GROWTH AND JOB CREATION

The economic growth driven by vertiport development attracts businesses to the area, creating numerous job opportunities. Establishing a network of vertiports stimulates local economies, attracting new investment and fostering a thriving business environment. This economic uplift is a direct result of strategic funding approaches that ensure continuous growth and development. The influx of businesses and job creation contributes to a vibrant economic scenario, boosting the overall prosperity of the regions served by eVertiSKY.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Environmental sustainability is a core benefit of eVertiSKY operations, achieved through the use of eco-friendly ground-space infrastructure. Incorporating electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and sustainable vertiport design significantly reduces CO2 emissions. This focus on green technology helps mitigate environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals. The company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint underscores its role as a leader in environmentally responsible urban air mobility.

IMPROVED ACCESSIBILITY AND CONNECTIVITY

Improved accessibility is another significant advantage, as the network of vertiports enhances connections and reduces travel time. Integrating UAM services into existing transportation systems enables faster and more efficient movement of both people and goods. Improved transportation infrastructure benefits individual commuters and supports efficient logistics, further promoting economic activity.
By connecting urban centers, suburban areas, and key economic hubs, eVertiSKY vertiports provide a seamless and efficient transportation solution that improves overall urban mobility. This comprehensive strategy that integrates community engagement, datadriven planning, innovative funding models, and a commitment to sustainability, ensures that eVertiSKY UAM initiatives are both viable and beneficial to all stakeholders involved.

COMMERCIALIZATION

eVertiSKY accelerates economic growth by transforming vertiports into central hubs in urban areas. These hubs are strategically placed and equipped with infrastructure such as EV charging stations, retail space, restaurants, and parks. This approach leverages recent advances in infrastructure laws and policies to seamlessly integrate UAM into urban settings. The development of these hubs involves strong partnerships between public authorities and private sectors, engaging a comprehensive range of stakeholders in the UAM value chain.
This includes vehicle manufacturers, vertiport operators, intelligent infrastructure providers such as the Public Intelligent Infrastructure Network (PIIN), infrastructure developers, regulators, service partners, distributors, clients, urban planners, and energy providers. To ensure business success and ROI, eVertiSKY develops vertiport ownership models through collaboration with stakeholders.
This collaboration, established while developing the business model, determines how vertiports will be financed, built, and operated. The goal is to align UAM development with urban planning and community needs, creating economic zones that support local economic activities.
The eVertiSKY strategy focuses on economic zones that encompass a three-square-mile area around each vertiport, with the possibility of combining sectors between cities. This broad approach integrates UAM into wider urban and economic planning, ensuring that the infrastructure supports transportation needs and stimulates local economic activity. Within these economic zones, the Sector Superblock concept aims to create highly integrated areas where vertiports serve as central hubs for UAM.
These Superblocks significantly increase the efficiency and scope of services provided to the community. Centralizing UAM operations within these blocks enables direct and efficient delivery of services to residents and businesses, improving convenience and operational effectiveness, allowing commercial expansion. This setup supports the expansion of UAM capabilities by establishing central areas that efficiently manage high volumes of air traffic and logistic operations. The strategic positioning of vertiports within Superblocks enables businesses to use UAM for faster delivery and logistics services, connecting them to a wider market and potentially increasing their customer base. This setup supports existing businesses and attracts new ventures, making economic zones equipped with vertiports attractive locations for business investment and development, thus driving economic growth and creating job opportunities within the community.
Integrating UAM into these economic zones also improves urban planning by reducing ground traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transportation solutions. This alignment with city planning strategies ensures that vertiport development complements broader urban development goals, fostering mutual dependency between UAM infrastructure and urban growth. The strategic integration of eVertiSKY supports its vision of creating a sustainable and economically vibrant UAM ecosystem.

CONCLUSION

eVertiSKY is a leader in the integration of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) services in urban environments. The company’s mission is focused on promoting economic growth and fostering sustainable practices. By addressing regulatory, technological, and infrastructural challenges, eVertiSKY ensures that its UAM ecosystem meets compliance standards and operational requirements. Engaging with the community is a key aspect of eVertiSKY’s approach. This engagement helps to understand local needs and secure community support, which is essential to the success of UAM initiatives. By prioritizing these elements eVertiSKY aims to create a robust and efficient UAM ecosystem that benefits cities and their residents. The seamless integration of UAM services will reduce travel time, enhance connectivity, and stimulate economic development. This comprehensive approach underscores eVertiSKY’s commitment to promoting urban transportation through innovative solutions, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for urban mobility.