Buckle up, for the future has arrived. How many times, in our youthful reveries, have we envisioned cars taking flight, perhaps inspired by the enchanting journeys of Ronald Weasley’s car in the realm of Harry Potter? Hasn’t this dream stirred within us, igniting imaginations with the allure of boundless skies…
Dubai is on the verge of introducing flying taxis, a symbol of innovation, promising to revolutionize urban mobility with swift, efficient travel experiences beyond terrestrial limitations, set to launch as early as next year.
In February 2023, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the development of aerial taxi station models by the RTA. The Dubai Ruler affirmed that aerial taxis would be operational by 2026, yet if all approvals are secured and everything proceeds smoothly, this milestone could be achieved as soon as 2025.
All you need to know about the flying taxis in Dubai
Flying taxis, poised to alleviate traffic congestion, are expected to launch in Dubai by the end of next year, initially operating from four key locations within the city (Dubai International Airport, Dubai Downtown, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah). This initiative is a collaboration between the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, JOBY Aviation, and Skyports Infrastructure.
The aircraft weighs approximately the same as a Tesla and utilizes high-speed charging. Upon landing, it initiates charging while passengers disembark. Joby, the visionary behind these aircraft, explains that the battery is not fully depleted during short trips of about seven minutes. However, for longer journeys like from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, lasting around 30 minutes, the entire charge will likely be utilized, necessitating a slightly longer charging time, but without inconvenience. Each aircraft accommodates five seats: four for passengers and the fifth for the fully-qualified commercial pilot seated in the front.
Flights will operate between altitudes of 1,000 and 3,000 feet, ensuring that passengers maintain mobile phone signal throughout the journey. Whether you’re scrolling through TikTok or need to send a text, connectivity remains uninterrupted.
Passengers can book their air taxi trips through a dedicated app developed by Joby, or opt to reserve a ride through Uber.
Upon completing your booking, you’ll arrive at the vertiport, where you’ll pass through a terminal before boarding your aircraft. This boarding procedure will take approximately five minutes. Upon reaching your destination and disembarking, Joby will seamlessly connect you to an Uber for the final leg of your journey. The air taxi will be ready to depart even if only one passenger is onboard.
How much will it cost?
Surprisingly, the cost won’t be as high as you might expect. Joby’s aim is to eventually make the fare comparable to that of an Uber Black ride. Initially, the cost may be slightly higher, but to remain competitive with traditional land taxis, prices will gradually decrease.
According to an article in Khaleej Times, the estimated cost per passenger will be around Dh350.
Is it safe?
If you’re concerned about safety, rest assured, rigorous testing will persist to ensure utmost safety upon launch. Equipped with six rotors, each aircraft offers an added layer of security compared to traditional helicopters with just one rotor.
Additionally, there are four battery packs, also dual redundant. The aircraft also has a wing and vertical lift to generate lift, so if power is lost, the aircraft can glide to a landing. Pilots are also fully commercially trained pilots, so you will be in safe hands.
When it comes to weather conditions, the aircraft can operate in all weather conditions. Additionally, the aircraft will fly just one to three thousand feet off the ground, so if there is an emergency, you will reach the ground in less than a minute.
In line with sustainability efforts, the aircraft are electric-powered and emission-free, ensuring a sustainable journey. Joby aims for the aircraft to decrease road traffic, thereby reducing car emissions.
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