At Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, flying vehicles have gained significant attention. However, an incident occurred on April 26 during a demo flight. Below are some straightforward Q&A regarding these airborne automobiles at the exhibition.
Please read the entire English-language article.
Read the initial Japanese article.
Q: What exactly are flying cars?
A: Flying cars are distinctive vehicles capable of flight. Typically, they accommodate anywhere from one to five passengers. Their design varies; some resemble drones, others resemble planes. Manufacturing costs for these automobiles tend to be lower compared to those of airplanes. Additionally, they operate more quietly than helicopters. Numerous enterprises globally, including Japanese firms, are diligently pursuing their development. It’s anticipated that flying cars will prove highly beneficial in coming years.
Q: Can visitors at the Expo ride in flying cars?
A: No. Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura of Osaka intended for visitors to experience rides in flying vehicles and pay for them. However, ensuring all safety measures were properly implemented proved too challenging ahead of the Expo’s commencement. Consequently, Japanese firms such as SkyDrive Inc., Marubeni Corp., and ANA Holdings Inc. arranged demo flights instead. These latter two entities have partnered with international corporations for these demonstrations.
A: What enables flying cars to take off and stay airborne?
A: The firms demonstrated the capabilities of these airborne vehicles over Yumeshima Island. Located in Osaka, this island is artificial. On April 14, an aerial vehicle ascended approximately ten meters off the ground and remained aloft for around six minutes under manual control. However, on April 26, a craft affiliated with Marubeni Corp. encountered issues mid-flight. This resulted in damage to both a structural component and one of its engines.
Will flying car exhibitions continue to take place at the Expo?
A: Additional flights had been scheduled during Japan’s Golden Week holiday period in early May as well as subsequent weekends. However, following the incident on April 26th, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition opted to halt these flights temporarily. They plan to reassess their safety measures prior to resuming them. Safety remains the top priority according to the Expo organizers.
(Japanese original by Takumi Fujikawa, Osaka City News Department)
Vocabulary
Expo: A big event where many countries or companies show new ideas and technology.
demonstration flights: Test flights to show people how something works.
Artificial island: A landmass created by humans rather than formed naturally.
motor: A device that provides the force needed for movement or flight.
Organizers: Individuals or entities responsible for planning and managing an event.
