Sat, Dec 21, 2024 | 19 Jumada Al-Akhirah 1446
Sat, Dec 21, 2024 | 19 Jumada Al-Akhirah 1446
Dubai is about to reshape transportation. A historic deal was just signed by Dubai's forward-thinking authorities to introduce the first commercial electric aerial taxi service globally by 2026. Imagine flying through the skies in an electric flying taxi; this is Dubai's adventurous step into the future, not science fiction.
Before the World Governments Summit, a deal was made in Dubai. The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) signed an agreement with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Joby Aviation (Joby), a top company in making flying taxis, and Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports), known for building places where these taxis can land. Because of this agreement, Dubai will be the first city globally to have a widespread electric flying taxi service and a network of special landing places called vertiports. It's like they're making the future happen in their city!
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, checked out the Joby Aviation S4 Aerial taxi. This cool flying taxi is planned to start carrying people in 2026. It's all part of the RTA's plan to make transportation better for the people who live in Dubai and those who visit. They want everyone to have an easier time getting around the city!
The important leader, His Highness, got information from Mattar Al Tayer, who is in charge of the RTA. They talked about how well things are going with the flying taxi plans. This new way of getting around uses really advanced technology to make sure it's safe and easy for people to move around in the city. The idea is to make this cool way of transport work smoothly with the other ways people travel in Dubai. They're making things better for everyone!
In 2026, Dubai will make history by introducing the world's first electric airborne taxi service. Instead of using regular fuel, these flying taxis will run on electricity, making them good for the environment. They will be more silent than helicopters, making the city more peaceful. The service will start in four areas: downtown, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and the airport. These taxis will have four seats and a pilot, flying at speeds up to 321 km/h! To make it all work smoothly, special landing pads called vertiports will be built around the city. It's like having flying cars, but better for the planet and city life!
This futuristic project is a huge step forward for transportation. It will:
Bonus! Here are some fun facts about the flying taxis:
Mattar Al Tayer, who leads the RTA, signed the agreement. The Minister of Economy, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, signed for GCAA. Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, in charge of DCAA, also signed. Duncan Walker, the Founder and CEO of Skyports, put his name on it. And JoeBen Bevirt, who started Joby Aviation, signed for his organization. They all made it official!
Abdulla bin Touq Al-Marri, the minister of Emirati economy, stated: “The UAE’s air transport sector, thanks to our wise leadership’s directives, is witnessing continuous development in accordance with global best practices. What we are witnessing today is the latest milestone in our efforts to enhance the sector’s global leadership and competitiveness. The UAE’s air transport sector has taken a big leap forward at the regional and global levels by announcing the launch of the pioneering air taxi project. It is set to bring about an unprecedented transformation in the country’s urban transport landscape, making it more flexible and sustainable.”
“The General Civil Aviation Authority worked in cooperation with its partners to formulate the national regulatory framework needed for the implementation of this pioneering project. The Authority issued regulations for air taxis and vertical ports, thus becoming the first national aviation authority in the world to issue this regulation, laying the foundation for the future infrastructure of the air transport system in urban areas. The move will also create new investment opportunities in air transport infrastructure and smart transport in our cities.” he continued.
“The aerial taxi service offers a novel and efficient mobility option for Dubai's residents and visitors, enabling fast, safe, and convenient travel to key city spots. For example, a flight from the Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah is expected to take just 10 minutes, down from the 45 minutes by car. This service is also set to enhance the integration with various public and individual mobility means such as taxis, e-scooters and bicycles, thereby facilitating seamless multimodal transportation, improving citywide connectivity, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers,” Al-Tayer remarked.
“RTA, together with Skyports and Joby, has carried out comprehensive studies for the selection of the initial four vertiport sites. Efforts are ongoing with the GCAA, the DCAA, the Dubai Air Navigation Services Corporation (DANS), and other relevant parties to establish the legislative and operational framework required to operate aerial taxis in the emirate. This regulatory and operational framework is the first of its kind in the world,” he said.
Bevirt stated: “It is an honour to collaborate with the Dubai Government to showcase the value of air mobility globally. The agreement encompasses the three crucial elements needed for the successful introduction of aerial taxi services: an aircraft with the capacity and range to deliver meaningful journeys, a definitive path to operations and well-placed infrastructure supported by dedicated partners. We are excited about offering an exceptional experience to both residents and visitors of Dubai and are enthusiastic about establishing a groundwork for extending our services across the UAE."
According to Walker,“This agreement marks a significant step towards the launch of commercial aerial taxi services in Dubai. The industry has never been closer to making it a reality. This agreement brings together the key enablers of advanced air mobility: strong, innovative local leadership; a world-leading aircraft partner; and critical ground infrastructure integrated with the emirate’s existing transportation networks. The strategic positioning of our vertiports in key locations across Dubai will enhance connectivity and provide a faster travel option for residents and visitors. With the Definitive Agreement signed, now begins the exciting part: designing and building our vertiports.”
At WGS 2023, RTA and Skyports revealed a plan for a new vertiport near Dubai Airport. This vertiport will have three floors for parking, with the top floor having a terminal and airfield for flying taxis. It will connect to Emirates Metro Station, making it easy for people to use different types of transport. The design will match Dubai's style and provide a comfortable and safe experience. Aerial taxis have benefits like taking off vertically, making less noise, and having no emissions. This makes them great for cities, getting people closer to where they want to go.
WGS 2024 will have more than 4,000 people from the public and private sectors with 110 sessions and 200 speakers from international organizations. The summit will include Nobel prize winners, ministerial meetings, and launch over 25 reports on important trends in different sectors.
