Dubai has approved the construction of its first aerial taxi Vertiport near Dubai International Airport. Which is a big step towards becoming the first city to offer urban air transportation. Designed to blend seamlessly with Dubai’s skyline, the Vertiport will offer passengers a unique, efficient and comfortable travel experience in the skies.
How big will be the Vertiport?
According to a press release, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum authorized the project. Spread over 3,100 square meters, the vertiport will have dedicated take-off and landing areas, aircraft charging stations, a taxi apron and parking areas. It will have a capacity of 42,000 landings and 170,000 passengers per year.
How is this aerial taxi?
The aerial taxi, Joby’s S4 model, is a zero-emission sustainable electric vehicle that can perform vertical take-off and landing. Equipped with six rotors and four battery packs, it can travel up to 161 km at a top speed of 321 km per hour. Designed for one pilot and four passengers, the taxi operates at a much lower noise level than helicopters.
When will it be launched?
According to global safety standards, the air-conditioned vertiport will be built in collaboration with international partners. Joby Aviation, which is responsible for aircraft manufacturing and operating, and Skyports, which oversees the design and management of the vertiport infrastructure. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will operate the project. And integrate it with other transit systems. The service is expected to start in early 2026.
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Dubai’s multimodal connectivity
RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer said that the initial phase will focus on four major locations. So that fast, safe and integrated transport solutions can be provided to residents and visitors in Dubai. He said that the project is in line with Dubai’s vision of multimodal connectivity. Which provides easy access to other public and personal transport options such as e-scooters and bicycles.
Agreement was signed this year
Earlier this year, the RTA signed an agreement to launch air taxi services with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Skyports Infrastructure, a UK-based major in advanced aerial mobility infrastructure development, and Joby Aviation, a US-based specialist in aerial vehicles.