STOL Aircraft for Urban Transport In the Long Island-New York City Area

A. Ralph Krenkel
Reuben B. Goldblatt


DOI: 10.2190/4HRC-DGK6-F6PW-8GV2

Abstract

The reduction of noise and air pollution contributed by the urban transportation system is a prime objective of urban mass transit. However, previously studied mass transit systems have required ground corridors to link the trip origins and destinations. These corridors restrict the system speed, are disruptive to the community, and tend to concentrate the environmental impact of that system. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the feasibility of a commuter transport system utilizing Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) aircraft operating in the Long Island-New York City area. Comparisons between the STOL system, the Long Island Railroad, and automotive modes of travel were made. These systems were compared on the basis of door-to-door trip times and costs. The STOL system was found to be technically feasible in that an airplane was designed so that its characteristics were consistent with commuter operations. However, it was concluded that the system is not economically feasible without substantial subsidies from outside sources.

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