Evaluating the Eco-Efficiency of Urban Air Mobility: Understanding Environmental and Social Impacts for Informed Passenger Choices

Urban air mobility (UAM);sustainability;eco-efficiency;unified architecture framework (UAF);causal loop analysis;mobility-as-a-system (MaaS)

CO2 emissions during operations are zero for full electric aircraft and are considered a potential solution for the Fly Net Zero by 2050, a commitment proposed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). In this sense, Urban Air Mobility (UAM) expects to offer an environmentally friendly alternative through electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. While eVTOLs produce no greenhouse gas emissions, the comprehensive eco-efficiency of UAM goes beyond the flight phase. This paper delves into evaluating UAM operation's environmental and social impacts, considering the urban space, public perception, operational profiles, and power consumption. Employing causal loop analysis, we uncover the relationships that add value or increase impact, assessing UAM passenger transportation's eco-efficiency. Furthermore, we use the Unified Architecture Framework to model the UAM ecosystem and to propose strategies to balance values and impacts in achieving eco-efficiency. By shedding light on the sustainability viewpoint, this paper aims to emphasize the importance of holistically understanding UAM's operational impact and empowering users to make eco-efficient choices when opting for UAM transportation. Finally, we discuss an integrated platform's role in providing sustainability awareness to the user.