Stated preference analysis of a new very light jet based on-demand air service

This paper develops behavior models to analyze traveler propensity towards a new “very light jet”-based on-demand air service (ODAS), also labeled air taxi service, with the broader objective of providing guidance for the enabling stakeholders including business operators, policy-makers and aircraft manufacturers. The models predict the probability of individuals switching from their usual preferred mode of intercity transportation (up to 960 km) to the ODAS under a range of scenarios in terms of travel distance and cost. Travel distance, service fare, and level of accessibility are identified as key determinants of the viability of the ODAS. Analysis of the models provides insights for operational/business strategies in the private sector (both for aircraft manufacturers and the ODAS operators), for policy-making in the public sector, and for understanding the potential barriers to the evolution of ODAS as a viable intercity travel option.