By Kris Crismundo

MANILA – The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Thursday signed a partnership deal with Australian firm AMSL Aero to explore the deployment of hydrogen-powered vertical take off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, or flying cars, in the country.

AMSL Aero is a sustainable development aerospace technology firm that manufactures the world-leading long-range hydrogen-electric VTOL aircraft, the Vertiia.

BCDA and AMSL Aero partnership aims to commence a feasibility study on the use of the flying cars within the former’s properties. VTOL aircraft can be used in connecting the archipelago—a characteristic of the Philippines that makes movement of people and goods more challenging—through passenger and freight carriage air bridges.

As Vertiia is powered by hydrogen, which does not emit carbon dioxide, the partnership also targets to strategically put up hydrogen production plants.

“This agreement also supports our vision to transform New Clark City into a smart and sustainable metropolis, which includes modern energy and transport infrastructure,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua Bingcang said.

“We look forward to progressing this partnership to achieve positive technological, economic and social outcomes for the Philippines,” Bingcang added.

BCDA said AMSL Aero also intends to explore establishing investments in the Philippines in aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, aviation operations, aerospace parts manufacture, air logistics, air passenger carriage, emergency medical services, hazard assistance and disaster relief, and defense.

“The partnership agreement with BCDA, and also the recently signed partnership with Life Flight New Zealand, clearly demonstrate the global demand and opportunity for hydrogen-powered VTOL technology. These agreements will enable AMSL Aero to further develop our innovative Vertiia technology to support multi-national requirements for passenger, cargo, air rescue, aeromedical and military air operations,” AMSL Aero CEO Max York said. (PNA)

Image Caption: FLYING CARS. AMSL Aero’s Vertiia vertical take off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and AMSL Aero sign a partnership agreement at BCDA headquarters in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City on Thursday (Oct. 3, 2024) to explore the deployment of hydrogen-powered VTOL aircraft in the country. (Courtesy of AMSL Aero)