Seoul, South Korea – Seoul is set to become a pioneer in urban air mobility (UAM) as the city announced plans to launch a pilot program in 2025, aiming for full commercialization by 2030. The initiative, dubbed "Seoul-type UAM," envisions a future where residents can commute by air taxis, significantly reducing travel time between key locations within the city and beyond.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon unveiled the city's ambitious UAM vision at the "UAM, Drone, and AI Technology Cooperation Conference" on November 11th. The plan outlines a four-phase approach to UAM development, starting with a pilot phase in 2025 followed by early commercialization in the late 2020s and full-scale operation by 2035.

Pilot Program and Initial Commercialization

The pilot program will focus on two routes: KINTEX (Goyang) to Gimpo Airport to Yeouido Park, and Jamsil to Suseo Station. These routes will be used to test the safety and feasibility of UAM operations, including aircraft performance and air traffic control.

Following successful trials, commercial UAM services are expected to commence in 2026, initially focusing on routes along the Han River, such as Gimpo Airport to Yeouido to Jamsil to Suseo. Integration with the Kimpo Airport vertiport will enable the use of UAM for business, tourism, and medical purposes.

Full-Scale Commercialization and Network Expansion

By 2030, Seoul aims to establish a comprehensive UAM network, connecting major cities and towns in the metropolitan area. The network will include intermediate stops at key locations such as Sangam, Gasan, Gwanghwamun, Wangsimni, and Sangbong. This expanded network is expected to significantly reduce travel time. For instance, the journey between Pangyo and Gwanghwamun, which currently takes about an hour by car, could be completed in just 15 minutes by UAM.

Economic Impact and Infrastructure

Seoul estimates that the full implementation of UAM could generate significant economic benefits, including annual savings of 2.2 trillion won (approximately US$1.6 billion) in travel time, a 4 trillion won increase in the metropolitan transportation market, and 1.2 trillion won in revenue from vertiport construction.

To support UAM operations, the city plans to build a network of vertiports, starting with four major facilities in Yeouido, Suseo, Jamsil, and Gimpo Airport by 2030. Additionally, Seoul will develop an integrated mobility system that seamlessly connects UAM with other modes of transportation, such as buses, autonomous vehicles, and subways.

Safety and Sustainability

Safety is a top priority for Seoul's UAM initiative. The city will establish comprehensive safety measures, including air traffic control systems, emergency landing sites, and robust maintenance protocols. Furthermore, Seoul aims to promote sustainable UAM operations by encouraging the use of electric and hybrid aircraft.

Vision for the Future

Mayor Oh emphasized that the Seoul-type UAM system will transform the city into a three-dimensional transportation network, revolutionizing mobility and connectivity. By overcoming the limitations of ground transportation, UAM will create a more efficient and sustainable urban environment.