Multimodal 3D transport system implementation barriers in populated municipalities

Abstract

Purpose Process of building and then implementation of integrated multimodal, passenger-centred and predominantly sustainable transport system will require a specific effort to be input in preparation, especially if it covers new entrants like passenger Urban Air Mobility. This paper aims to address the first step which is the identification of barriers to be overcome to turn the concept into reality. Design/methodology/approach Comparison of the current state-of-the-art in transportation, Information and Communication Technologies as well as other city planning domains to the forecasted ecosystem, described in the form of scenarios where base for definition of necessary actions, challenges as well as potential barriers and obstacles were identified and thoroughly specified. Findings Barriers grouped in five categories: policy, digitalisation, transportation technologies, integration technologies and passengers’ needs allow for formulation of the relevant roadmaps defining optimal development path towards fully integrated multimodal, passenger-centred and sustainable transport system. Research limitations/implications Conclusions can be a starting point in studies towards development of roadmap for implementation of truly integrated municipal transport system both sharing the resources as well as high-level objectives. Practical implications Conclusions can be exploited in various areas starting from preparation of strategies in cities aspirating to be smart, through definition of technology development priorities by relevant agencies ending with industry actors looking for better trimming their business. Originality/value The identified barriers as derived from detailed investigation enable deep insight into the total transport system vision in which Urban Air Mobility integrated within urban mobility ecosystem is considered as game-changing factor having large potential to contribute to both making cities smart and sustainable.