On-demand aviation could become a reality in the Upper Cumberland, according to T-DOT’s Aeronautics Director.
JP Saalwaechter told the Center Hill Rural Planning Organization Thursday advanced air mobility can improve both delivery and transportation. Saalwechter said technology like delivery drones already exists, but new technology like small electric or hydrogen powered airplanes, referred to as “air taxis,” could revolutionize travel.
“Going from horse and buggy to car, that expanded the size of communities, how people move,” Saalwaechter said. “And so, we think this will be another kind of evolution to how we can use our airspace as part of our broader transportation portfolio, and how we move people and goods.”
Saalwaechter said air taxis could carry four to six passengers between 50 and 200 miles. Saalwaechter said several aircraft are in the FAA certification process, which could happen by late 2026.
Locally, Saalwaechter said air taxi travel prices would likely be higher than the cost to travel in a normal road vehicle, but less expensive than commercial cross-country flights.
Saalwaechter said drone delivery could happen sooner, and T-DOT has been in touch with multiple interested businesses. Saalwaechter said the T-DOT needs to ensure proper infrastructure is in place for drone delivery before it is rolled out in Tennessee.
“We have deliveries happening by drones in multiple states,” Saalwaechter said. “Our neighbor, North Carolina has a lot happening. Virginia has some, Texas, and others. These newer aircraft aren’t certified yet, so they’re just going through the testing process.”
In addition to commercial benefits, Saalwaechter said advanced air mobility could benefit rural areas by expanding access to healthcare and urban opportunities. Saalwaechter said there could be more disaster response capability and workforce development with this technology.
Saalwaechter said local governments play a large role in making this technology accessible, and collaboration is key.
“We think there’s a lot of opportunity here, but we also want to make sure we’re going about it in a safe and responsible way,” Saalwaechter said. “It will take some planning at the local level, and that’s really I’m here speaking to the RPOs. To make them aware of the emerging technology, and help them think about what that looks like in their communities.”
