With top speeds reaching 320 km/hr, air taxis in the UAE are poised to transform travel between Dubai Airport and Palm Jumeirah, reducing the current 30-45 minute journey to a mere 10 minutes. Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of the Public Transport Agency at Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, underscores the remarkable speed, range, and limited charging time of these futuristic vehicles.
Versatility in Transport and Exciting Plans
Emphasizing the aircraft’s substantial range, Ahmed envisions not only streamlined travel within Dubai but also potential inter-emirate trips. The initial focus, however, will be on Dubai routes. The collaboration between Skyports, Joby, and the RTA promises groundbreaking changes in transportation.
Strategic Partnerships and Agreements
At the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2024, decisive agreements were inked, marking a crucial step toward realizing the ambitious air taxi project. The three-way partnership involves Skyports, responsible for building vertiports; Joby, the aircraft operator; and the RTA, overseeing the entire operation.
Public Launch and Comprehensive Services
Looking ahead, Ahmed reveals plans for the public launch of the air taxi project in 2026, featuring an initial fleet of six air taxis. The RTA aims to provide end-to-end services at the vertiport, ensuring seamless connectivity with the metro station and even considering limo services.
Innovative Aircraft Features
The Joby aircraft, a pioneering model showcased at the WGS, boasts four passenger seats and one pilot seat initially. Running on electric energy, it requires a minimal 10-minute recharge between flights, contributing to reduced emissions. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, outlines the testing timeline and targets a commercial service launch in 2026.
Efficient Boarding and Futuristic Vertiports
Duncan Walker, CEO and co-founder of Skyports, envisions a zero-touch boarding process with biometrics for security checks. The vertiports, set to begin construction in June, promise an airport-like experience without the usual waiting times. The first vertiport, located at Dubai Airport, aims for completion by the end of 2025, signaling a transformative era in urban transportation.
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