Demonstrating the use of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) taxis at the Osaka Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, hit a temporary snag when the HEXA aircraft from LIFT Aircraft, operated by Marubeni, experienced a rotor blade detachment last Saturday. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the aircraft was able to safely return to land.
The organizers of Osaka Expo have announced a temporary suspension of the eVTOL flight demonstrations until the cause of the incident is identified and rectified. Despite being a highlighted showcase at the event, with four participating service providers, external passenger flights utilizing Flying Taxis have been canceled due to safety concerns. Only demonstration flights by the respective service providers will continue until the conclusion of the event.
Source: NHK and Japan Today
TLDR: Demonstration of eVTOL taxis at Osaka Expo faced a setback due to a rotor blade detachment, resulting in the suspension of external passenger flights for safety reasons.
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