Urban Air Mobility (UAM) company Wisk is partnering with the New Zealand Government to establish a passenger transport trial in Canterbury, New Zealand utilizing Cora, Wisk’s self-flying, all-electric air taxi.

“We are delighted to now have a signed agreement with the New Zealand Government, which will propel Cora’s entry to the air taxi market,” says Wisk CEO, Gary Gysin.

“We see this agreement as a sign of confidence in our product and abilities to develop and deliver a safe and reliable air taxi service, starting in New Zealand.”

Last October, the New Zealand Government announced that it was establishing an industry-wide Airspace Integration Trial to collaborate with industry partners domestically and internationally to safely test and demonstrate UAS. Based in the U.S. and New Zealand, Wisk was announced as the first industry partner to join the program.

The planning for a passenger transport trial in Canterbury has begun. According to Wisk, the passenger route is a “world’s first” and will start once the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority certifies Cora.

“This trial is the first of its kind and Wisk’s innovative technology and commitment to New Zealand make them an ideal partner for advancing the future of travel in New Zealand and the world,” says Minister of Research Science and Innovation Hon. Dr. Megan Woods.