Increasing traffic congestion is one of the major concerns surrounding urban transport in megacities. Despite a flawless infrastructure, roads are getting more crowded by the day. A number of developed countries are now considering aerial modes of transportation to diffuse this problem. Recently, RTA also briefed regarding its progress on the Autonomous Air Taxi (AAT) to be launched in Dubai.
Let’s discuss the progress, working, benefits and future of flying taxis in Dubai.
Flying Taxi in Dubai
This science-fiction inspired mode of transportation is becoming a reality in the UAE. The first landmark achievement towards this goal is the Sky Pod Sharjah. RTA has been working on flying taxis in collaboration with a German VOLOCOPTER company. The first trial phase of AAT was initiated in 2017.
Here are the complete details regarding the AAT.
Working of AAT
The AAT is a complete autonomous flying vehicle similar to self-driving cars. It requires no human intervention for working. Powered by AI, these vehicles are programmed to identify and avoid birds and other objects while flying. It uses sensors and image processors for navigation and a laser-based lidar to identify any obstruction on landing surfaces.
Specifications of AAT
The RTA’s air taxi in Dubai is equipped with all the luxury and safety features. The AAT offers comfortable leather seats and enough foot space for two passengers. Moreover, the noise-proof cabin is fitted with aircraft emergency parachutes in case of an accident.
The propellers of AAT are powered by plug-in batteries that also contribute to reducing carbon footprint. The charging time of these batteries is around 40 minutes.
AAT is equipped with 18 propellers with a maximum flight time of 30 minutes. The flying taxi in Dubai can travel at a maximum speed of 50 km/h (100 km/h airspeed).
Benefits of AAT
The major and foremost benefit of AAT is the reduction in traffic congestion and carbon emission. Furthermore, it will be a comfortable, fast and smooth mode of transition for the masses.
Other than that, flying taxis in Dubai will provide a new dimension to smart mobility solutions in the UAE. It will also cater to Dubai’s Smart Autonomous Mobility Strategy for 2030.
Future of Flying Taxi in Dubai
RTA’s aim to launch air taxis in Dubai will completely transform the future of flying transport in Dubai. However, there are a number of legal obstructions that need to be resolved before launching the project. Recently, RTA hosted the first legal forum to examine and resolve legislative hurdles.
The discussion was focused on operation controls, registration processes and liability of damage caused by air taxis. The forum also highlights safety concerns related to passengers, air routes and the risk of flying over residential communities.
Along with these legal issues, their are a number of other concerns need to be resolved for a completely operational air taxi service in Dubai. Most recently, RTA and Joby Aviation completed the first crewed eVTOL aerial taxi flight between Margham and Al Maktoum International Airport, marking a major milestone toward commercial operations expected in 2026. For the time being, you have to use the existing public transport system. If not, browse through these used cars for sale in Dubai, and drive your own car.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on autonomous air taxi in Dubai.
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