US studios SHoP Architects and Gensler are among eight practices that have created concept designs of "skyports" for Uber, which will be hubs for both flying and ground-based taxi fleets.
The Uber Air Skyports are designed as "fully considered and technically feasible" buildings that give an idea of the structures the taxi company aims to build ahead of the commercial launch of Uber Air ? its app-based flying taxi service ? in 2023.
Alongside SHoP Architects and Gensler's designs, concepts have been revealed by Pickard Chilton working with Arup, The Beck Group, Boka Powell, Corgan, Humphreys & Partners Architects and Mithun.
Gensler is one of eight architects to envision future flying taxi hubs for Uber
"With the first launch of Uber Air just a few short years away, this collection of Skyport Mobility Hub concepts establish a practical, sustainable vision for the infrastructure needed in the communities we plan to serve," said John Badalamenti, head of design for advanced programmes at Uber. The concepts have been envisioned for Dallas, Los Angeles and Melbourne ? all cities where Uber has already announced it will be launching its aerial taxi service.
Each of the concepts is designed to support both its current ground-based fleet of taxis and future aerial transport. Last year Uber released a drone-like prototype for an aerial passenger vehicle that it intends to bring into operation by 2023.

The proposals all include space for electric ...