Japanese engineering consulting firm Chodai has conducted a successful demonstration flight of flying cars in Kushimoto Town, Wakayama Prefecture, as part of efforts toward the social implementation of this futuristic transportation technology. The project was undertaken under Wakayama Prefecture’s initiative, “Enhancing Social Acceptance for the Operation of Flying Cars.” The demonstration drew a crowd of approximately 600 spectators, who cheered as the flight tests achieved success.

Two demonstration flights were conducted in Kushimoto Town on September 21. The first was an unmanned flight along a preprogrammed route, and the second featured a human inspector aboard. The flying car reached a maximum altitude of 40 meters and completed a triangular route of approximately 300 meters without incident.

Following the flights, a public engagement event was held to build momentum for flying car initiatives. Activities included presentations by high school students, a flying car quiz competition, and a VR experience attraction where attendees could virtually pilot a flying car.

Chodai, leveraging its expertise as a comprehensive construction consultant, plans to continue working toward the social implementation of flying cars. The company is focusing on feasibility studies and initiatives to foster public acceptance of the technology. (2024/11/20)