Wisk agrees deal with Houston Airports to bring autonomous air taxis to region

Wisk Aero and Houston Airports, have agreed a memorandum of understanding to bring autonomous air taxi services to Greater Houston. 

As part of the collaboration, Wisk and Houston Airports will identify and assess potential locations for the development of vertiports 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 Airports and Wisk will work together to develop infrastructure, routes and partner with the community, while continuing conversations with the FAA. The announcement follows Wisk’s partnership with the Texan city of Sugar Land to bring autonomous air taxis to the Greater Houston Region announced earlier this year. 

Brian Yutko, CEO at Wisk said: “Our partnership with Houston Airports solidifies Wisk’s commitment to creating new and efficient ways to travel within the Greater Houston area, and furthers our relationship with infrastructure and regulatory partners in the region. Texas is quickly becoming a leader not only in AAM, but in ushering in safe, autonomous flight here in the US.”

Houston Airports and Wisk will engage in projects to advance the overarching goal of the partnership:

• Houston Airports will focus on integrating AAM into its long-term plans, championing community engagement and establishing operational policy, such as infrastructure permitting and noise levels.
• Wisk will provide expertise on technical needs for autonomous eVTOL operations, including infrastructure, training, ground operational procedures and plans for potential site expansion.
• Together, the two organisations will explore incorporating maintenance and training facilities in Houston.

Jim Szczesniak, director of Aviation for Houston Airports added: “Our partnership with Wisk represents a bold step towards revolutionising air mobility not just within our city, but across the entire Greater Houston region. As a hub of business and progress, Houston is the ideal starting point for advancements in autonomous air travel, as the ideas, infrastructure and innovation stand to benefit residents, tourists and the business community.”