[ad_1]
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council His Highness Al Maktoum, who today (February 13) approved the prototype design of the first vertical airport for air taxis that will be established in the UAE, will seamlessly integrate with other modes of mass transportation.
A mock-up of an air taxi vertiport developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is on display at the authority’s stand at the 2023 World Government Summit.
Located near Dubai Airport, the vertiport comprises a structure with two levels of parking. The topmost rooftop serves as a terminal for air taxis, which will be connected to the Emirates Metro Station via an air-conditioned bridge.
The vertiport consists of a structure with two levels of parking. The topmost rooftop serves as a terminal for air taxis, which will be connected to the Emirates Metro Station via an air-conditioned bridge.
It has a modern design that complements the overall look and charm of Dubai. It will provide users with a unique and enjoyable mode of transportation, equipped with air-conditioning facilities that meet the top international safety standards for maximum convenience.
The new project aims to launch a groundbreaking technology-driven mobility service that integrates with Dubai’s public transport network in a safe, smooth and sustainable manner to ease the movement of individuals in urban areas. A statement from the RTA said the new air taxi service will be operational by 2026.
According to the RTA, air taxis have a unique vertical take-off and landing capability and are sustainable, environmentally friendly electrically powered vehicles with zero emissions of harmful pollutants to the environment.
These taxis are also renowned for their safety, comfort and speed, incorporating the latest technological advancements in this field from around the world. The air taxi has a range of 241.4 kilometers, a top speed of 300 kilometers per hour, and can accommodate up to four passengers and a driver.
During Sheikh Mohammed’s visit to the RTA stand, RTA Director General and Chairman Mattar Al Tayer updated him on the status of the air taxi operation project,
He was also briefed on potential partners identified by the RTA to operate and invest in the infrastructure needed to realize the air taxi project.
“The initial phase includes selection of a manufacturer and operator based on technology and timetable, as well as identification of vertiport installation locations. The initial vertiport network will connect four main areas of Dubai: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa area), Dubai Marina, Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah,” Al Tayer explained.
“Vertiports embody a revolutionary form of infrastructure that includes a range of facilities such as designated takeoff and landing areas, passenger holding areas, safety protocols and charging stations. These stations integrate seamlessly with other modes of transportation. The next step involves identifying Outstanding investors who are experts in building the necessary infrastructure for the air mobility industry,” he added.
Al Tayer said that the operation of air taxis will be divided into two main phases; selection of suitable technology that meets global standards, and partnership with specialized suppliers.
“To ensure the best possible outcome, companies will be evaluated on the technology used and the comprehensive plan for adoption and implementation of this cutting-edge sustainable mode of transport,” he noted.
“The operation consists of four key elements. They include detailed negotiations with numerous companies active in the field, signing of commercial agreements, establishment of local entities to carry out related operations, development of necessary infrastructure and the much-anticipated launch of services,” he said added.
Al Tayer said the second phase involved identifying potential partners to invest in the infrastructure needed to bring self-driving air taxis to Dubai’s skies.
“Currently, commercial negotiations are underway with the most promising and professional investors in the global air mobility sector to build the necessary infrastructure,” he added.
“The launch of this service depends on the readiness of the companies and the legislative requirements for operating air taxis. It also involves a thorough review of all operational details and ensuring that all safety measures are in place,” he added.
According to him, the RTA’s air taxi plan is in line with the Dubai Autonomous Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25 percent of mobility in Dubai to driverless by 2030.
He said the RTA is working closely with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and Dubai Air Navigation Services to create a unique integrated framework for the operation of such vehicles in Dubai.
This includes developing legislation and setting clear norms and standards for vehicle operators. Working with its strategic partners, RTA outlined the vehicle’s flight path, identified take-off and landing locations, and specified the equipment needed to operate safely and efficiently,” he added.trade arab news agency
[ad_2]
Source link