Many companies, including Boeing and Vertical Aerospace, are working on flying taxis. The United Arab Emirates, specifically Dubai, has announced a timeline for establishing a flying taxi network. Here are the details…
Dubai sets a date for the flying taxi network
The CEO of Skyports, which is building the landing infrastructure for flying taxis, stated on Wednesday, “We want our city to be the first in the world to have a fully developed flying taxi network. We will accelerate our efforts to build more landing infrastructure as soon as possible.”
Dubai aims to become a leading city in the future of flying taxis by completing a fully operational flying taxi network by 2026. Skyports had initially announced plans to build vertiports (launch ramps for air taxis) in February.
The company plans to construct four landing areas near Dubai International Airport, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai City Center, and Dubai Yacht Harbor. Commenting on the locations, the company stated, “These initial locations will connect four of Dubai’s most popular and densely populated areas, providing high-speed, zero-emission connectivity.”
Joby Aviation, a U.S.-based startup that produces electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, joined Skyports to promote the initiative, according to the announcement.
The flying car industry is estimated to be worth $150 billion by 2035. Electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles use electric power and are designed to be quieter than traditional helicopters.