The UAE plans to introduce fast air taxis that can reach speeds of 320 km/h. This could significantly cut the travel time between Dubai Airport and Palm Jumeirah from 30-45 minutes to just 10 minutes. The CEO of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, Ahmed Bahrozyan, emphasized the speed, range, and quick charging capabilities of these air taxis, making them suitable for trips between emirates.
Scheduled to launch in 2026, the air taxi project is a collaboration between Skyports, Joby (the aircraft operator), and the RTA. Initially, it will operate on routes within Dubai, with plans for vertiports (landing ports) in place. The official agreements were signed at the World Governments Summit 2024, marking a significant step toward making the air taxi project a reality.
Joby to launch air taxi service in UAE We’ve signed a landmark agreement with the government of Dubai, granting Joby the exclusive right to operate air taxis in the Emirate. The agreement brings together the three key ingredients for a successful air taxi service: a definitive… pic.twitter.com/eZM4yK0jZP
— Joby Aviation (@jobyaviation) February 11, 2024
Ahmed mentioned that the RTA is planning to offer complete services at the vertiport, ensuring easy connections to the metro station and possibly providing a limo service. The showcased Joby aircraft, with four passenger seats and one for the pilot, aims for eventual autonomous operation and runs on electric energy, recharging in just 10 minutes with minimal emissions.
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, shared plans for flight testing in the UAE starting in 2025, with the goal of launching commercial service in 2026. The aircraft, which has undergone testing in the US since 2017, is currently undergoing safety certifications by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Boarding these air taxis is designed to be contactless, using biometrics for security checks. Duncan Walker, CEO and co-founder of Skyports, highlighted the efficiency of vertiports, which resemble airports but without the usual waiting times. Vertiport construction is set to begin in June, starting with the one at Dubai Airport, and they are expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
The air taxi project aims to provide a smooth and time-efficient transportation option, aligning with the UAE’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and innovation.
