Wisk Aero and Houston Airports have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a network of autonomous air taxis and associated infrastructure in Greater Houston.
The collaboration will see the two companies identify and assess several potential vertiport locations throughout the region, with current plans to evaluate feasibility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Ellington Airport (EFD).
Houston Mayor John Whitmire said:During my time in the Texas senate, I voted for legislation supporting advanced air mobility. This public-private partnership marks a significant step forward for the City of Houston as we invest in innovative and sustainable modes of air transportation.
The collaboration underscores our commitment to pioneer advancements that will shape the future of urban mobility.
Over the next 12 months, Houston Airport will place a focus on integrating potential AAM solutions into its existing long-term plans, whilst Wisk will provide key information on technical requirements for the establishment of eVTOL operations, including infrastructure, training, ground operation procedures and site expansion potential.
The two companies will also seek to incorporate maintenance and training facilities within the region, as well as progress conversations with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The agreement follows Wisk’s recent partnership with the City of Sugar Land which sought to bring autonomous air taxis to Greater Houston.