A strategic collaboration is aiming to deliver vertiport creation for eVTOL aircraft, integrated charging infrastructure, and the implementation of electric aerial rideshare operations across North Central Texas
Overair, a player in advanced air mobility (AAM) and the creator of an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has recently announced a pioneering collaboration with the City of Arlington, Texas.
This new partnership not only marks a historic moment but also establishes a precedent as the first-ever direct collaboration between a city in Texas and an eVTOL Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).
New Horizons in Transportation
The collaborative efforts of Overair and Arlington are poised to reshape the landscape of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) operations, with the initiative set to kick off at the Arlington Municipal Airport and extend its reach throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth DFW region.
Anticipated eVTOL operations are expected to provide a direct link to Arlington’s vibrant Entertainment District.
This district boasts attractions such as Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor, and hosting major sports franchises like the Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys, Arlington Renegades, and the WNBA’s Dallas Wings.
It is a hub of entertainment, featuring a plethora of restaurants, shopping centers, museums, and live entertainment venues.
Overair’s Collaboration with DFW International Airport
Building on a recent agreement with Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport, Overair’s collaboration with the City of Arlington forms a strategic alliance to expand AAM operations across North Texas.
This expansion includes the comprehensive development of an eVTOL ecosystem, encompassing vertiports, advanced charging infrastructure, and the implementation of electric aerial rideshare.
As a part of the agreement, Overair will establish a base of operations in North Central Texas, bringing new employment opportunities to residents.
This move not only contributes to technological advancement but also strengthens the local economy by creating jobs.
Overair Comments
Valerie Manning, Overair’s Chief Commercial Officer, expressed excitement about positioning Arlington as a global pioneer in fully electric AAM capabilities.
“Electric advanced air mobility is an example of transportation evolving with the needs of a growing society. We are incredibly excited to help drive this transportation evolution in North Central Texas,” she stated.
To ensure the success of the project, Overair and the City of Arlington will establish a joint, cross-functional working group.
This group will address challenges and oversee the timely completion of milestones, including an initial feasibility study by Overair.
The study aims to assess the demand for AAM services within the Arlington area and evaluate scenarios for flight operations in and out of vertiport locations.
Mayor’s Perspective
Arlington Mayor Jim Ross emphasized the far-reaching impact of this partnership. “This partnership not only advances the City of Arlington as a leader in implementing innovative transportation solutions but also provides high-tech and engineering jobs to our residents,” he stated.
The collaboration is set to create a new mobility ecosystem, fostering socio-economic progress for decades to come.
The Butterfly Effect
As Overair stays on track with the development of the Butterfly aircraft, aligned with the goals of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Innovate28 initiative, the company aims to address logistical challenges associated with moving people and goods.
The Butterfly’s unique proprietary propulsion system and oversized rotors enable safe, quiet, and efficient flight in various weather conditions.