Soon you will be flying your own aircraft. From your backyard to anywhere you want. Preposterous? The idea is not as far-fetched as it seems.
At the beginning of the 20th century, only the very rich and famous could ride in their own private cars. Private vehicles back then were expensive, difficult to drive and hard to maintain. As a result, the Lords of Great Britain needed professional chauffeurs when driving to the hunting grounds of their shires. The masses – even the well-settled upper-middle class – were compelled to share the ride in public ways of transportation.
We just need the audacity of a modern Henry Ford to produce self-piloted aircraft for every one.
Things changed with the advent of Henry Ford’s Model T. It was the first mass produced car for everyman. By the mid 30s, private vehicles were at the reach of the common man in the US. At the end of the 20th century, private vehicles have become ubiquitous everywhere in any country around the world.
Now, at the beginning of the 21st century, only the very rich and famous can afford riding in their own private jet. Private jets are expensive, difficult to pilot and hard to maintain. As a result, the tycoons of Wall Street need professional pilots to fly them back and forth to their Caribbean islands. The masses – even the upper middle class – are compelled to share the ride at Southwest Airlines and Ryanair.
But things are just about to change again. Technology is ready and becoming cheap. Pilotless drones are taking-off and landing everywhere. We just need the audacity of a modern Henry Ford to produce self-piloted aircraft for every one.
The trouble is not technological. It is rather psychological. Just sit in the front seat, punch in your destination, and relax. Let the computer take charge. Off you go!!
Would you?
#uam
