Flying Taxis to Transform Bali Tourism by 2028 with Vela Alpha and Intercrus Sola eVTOLs
Bali, one of the world’s most beloved tropical paradises, is preparing to take travel to new heights—literally. By 2028, the island may become one of the first major tourism destinations in Southeast Asia to introduce commercial flying taxis. This bold leap into urban air mobility (UAM) aims to revolutionize how both tourists and locals navigate Bali’s increasingly congested roads while supporting the island’s vision of sustainable tourism.
The concept of flying taxis has long seemed the stuff of science fiction. However, Indonesia’s state-owned aerospace manufacturer, PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), is fast turning that dream into a near-future reality. In collaboration with PT Vela Prima Nusantara, PTDI is currently developing two advanced electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft models: the Vela Alpha and Intercrus Sola.
First Flights Expected by 2028
PTDI officials revealed that both aircraft are targeting a commercial rollout by 2028. Speaking during the Jiexpo Kemayoran in Jakarta, Moh Arif Faisal, PTDI’s Director of Commerce, Technology, and Development, shared that prototype trials for the Vela Alpha are scheduled for 2026. The vehicle is anticipated to receive certification in 2027, with commercial operations to begin the following year.
The Vela Alpha is designed to accommodate up to seven people, including one pilot and six passengers. The eVTOL aircraft will have a cruising range of up to 100 kilometers, a top speed of 250 km/h, and a maximum payload of 550 kg. Importantly, the aircraft is electric-powered, making it a sustainable mobility solution for a region grappling with environmental and traffic challenges.
In addition to transporting passengers, the Vela Alpha is also slated for multiple commercial applications, including cargo logistics, airport shuttles, disaster relief missions, medical evacuations, and aerial surveys.
A Military-Grade Model for Urban Use
The second model, the Intercrus Sola, was originally conceptualized as a military UAV and has since been adapted for civilian UAM purposes. With a capacity of two to four passengers and no need for a runway, the Intercrus Sola can operate from ships, remote areas, or uneven terrain—ideal for Bali’s diverse landscapes. It has a range of 100 km, a cruising speed of 150 km/h, and can carry a payload of up to 360 kg.
Bali: A Prime Market for Futuristic Travel
The decision to debut flying taxis in Bali aligns with the region’s aggressive tourism and smart infrastructure strategies. Bali is one of Indonesia’s most visited provinces, drawing millions of international and domestic tourists annually. Yet its roads, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu, have struggled with heavy congestion and rising pollution.
Urban air mobility is being looked at as a solution to these issues while simultaneously enhancing the luxury travel experience. Heber Panjaitan, Business Development Manager at PTDI, explained during the 2024 Bali International Airshow that the Vela Alpha is specifically designed with Bali’s tourism market in mind.
“Flying taxis will operate like any other ride-hailing service,” Panjaitan explained. “Customers will be able to book flights online. But for safety, each ride will be piloted by a trained professional.”
He added that the service is being marketed toward high-net-worth tourists and affluent locals, with an estimated starting fare of IDR 400,000 (approximately USD 25)—positioning it as a premium yet accessible experience.
Embracing Smart and Sustainable Travel
Flying taxis in Bali are expected to dramatically improve travel times across the island, reducing commutes from hours to mere minutes in some cases. Moreover, these aircraft produce zero emissions at point of use, which supports Indonesia’s broader environmental goals under its national Green Economy framework and the Bali Clean Energy Policy.
As Bali prepares to host COP30-related dialogues and intensifies its sustainability efforts across sectors, the timing of eVTOL integration into its transportation landscape couldn’t be more appropriate.
This initiative also reflects global trends in smart tourism, where destinations aim to integrate technology to enhance visitor experience while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local communities.
Challenges and Regulatory Framework
Despite the excitement, several challenges remain. Regulatory approval for air taxis, especially in populated and tourist-heavy areas, will require coordination between aviation authorities, local governments, and environmental planners.
However, PTDI is confident that with cooperation from Indonesian stakeholders and international partners, the aircraft will meet all necessary safety and airspace requirements by 2028.
The Future of Travel is Airborne
With eVTOLs like Vela Alpha and Intercrus Sola nearing commercial readiness, Bali may soon become a global pioneer in luxury urban air mobility. As the tourism industry seeks innovations that blend speed, sustainability, and style, flying taxis may well become the future-facing solution Bali needs to stay ahead of the curve.
As 2028 approaches, Bali travelers may find themselves swapping traffic jams for scenic aerial rides over rice terraces and volcanoes—turning every transfer into a tourist attraction in itself.
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