UAE: The introduction of flying taxis in the urban transport system will reduce travel time from Abu Dhabi to Dubai to 30 minutes.
This revolutionary step was made possible by Joby Aviation, a US-based company developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial passenger service. The flying taxis are expected to start operations by 2025 or early 2026.
Induction of Flying Taxis
During DRIFTx – the world’s only smart and autonomous mobility and transport event – held at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, an executive from Joby Aviation said, “Our aircraft will be able to fly between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 30 to 35 minutes.”
Collaboration between Companies
Archer Aviation, another eVTOL developer, has joined the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster established by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Archer recently announced during DRIFTx that it has signed a framework agreement with ADIO to speed up its planned commercial air taxi operations in the UAE. Furthermore, Falcon Aviation, an aviation services operator based in the UAE, and Archer Aviation plan to develop vertiport infrastructure in critical locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Framework Agreement with ADIO
Under the agreement, ADIO will ensure the development of local workforce programs for Emirati talent and help establish Archer’s international headquarters and centre of excellence in Abu Dhabi. Archer’s air taxi service, with its Midnight aircraft, is scheduled to launch as soon as next year.
DRIFTx Event
The DRIFTx event showcased the Automated Rapid Transit (ART), self-driving TAXI cabs with a new design, and driverless minibuses shuttling visitors between various locations. Visitors could witness a variety of innovative solutions in action through sea, air, and land demonstrations.
Leading global companies showcased prototypes of flying taxis, autonomous cars, drones, and other advanced systems. Visitors even had the opportunity to participate in a real-time streaming demonstration of driving on the streets of South Korea.
Joe Ben Bevirt, CEO of Joby Aviation, appreciated the momentous advancement in infrastructure development and certifying autonomous aircraft in the UAE. “The UAE has been able to expedite moves on building critical infrastructure,” Bevirt said and underlined that safety and noise control have been key considerations for Joby Aviation.
Signing of Agreement
In February, Joby Aviation signed an agreement with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to launch air taxi services in the Emirate by early 2026.
The collaboration between companies and the significant milestone achieved in infrastructure development in the UAE will pave the way for a more efficient and safe mode of transportation.