PlanningxExchange 113: Air taxis (spinners) & Vertiports with Clem Newton-Brown

Planning XChange

Episode PX113 is all about Advanced Aerial Mobility (AAM) aircraft, these are typically electric or hybrid powered, air taxis and the like. They have appeared in various science fiction films such as Blade Runner 2019 and Blade Runner 2049 (nicknamed ‘spinners’). They will soon be appearing above our cities and towns. Clem Newton-Brown our guest is CEO and founder of Skyportz (https://skyportz.com), the only Australian business developing a network of landing sites for a future air taxi network. Clem’s background as a former Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Member of Victorian Parliament and barrister specialising in planning and property development has put him at the forefront of this emerging industry. More details on Clem are found at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clem_Newton-Brown.

Clem serves on several Federal, State, industry and international committees advancing the development of the rules and regulations around establishing a whole new era in clean, green electric aviation. The success of the industry depends on these changes along with a network of Skyportz sites from which air taxis will operate. These are known as ‘vertiports’.

We note some AAM's aircraft might have alternative power sources or run as hybrids.

Skyportz has over 600 property partner sites in Australia and New Zealand which are ready to activate when regulations permit.

A terrific interview subject with a great passion for new business concepts, cities and aviation.

In podcast extra / culture corner, Clem recommends the great outdoors and getting away form technology (for a little bit). Jess recommends: Duolingo ‘Learning Italian’: https://www.duolingo.comthe

Pete recommends: ‘A Rebel from the start - Setting the record straight’ by Avi Yemini https://www.amazon.com.au/Rebel-Start-Setting-Record-Straight/dp/B0C91KG18N

Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 1 March 2024.