Nation’s Aviation Authority Aims for Project Completion by 2026

The United Arab Emirates, known for its skyscrapers, artificial islands, and indoor ski slopes, is now turning its attention to the sky by mapping out air corridors for flying taxis and drones. The nation’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) hopes to complete the project within 20 months.

This effort is being carried out in collaboration with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and ASPIRE, both based in Abu Dhabi. If all goes to plan, air taxis could be ferrying passengers by 2026, potentially making the UAE the first country to successfully integrate flying taxis into its infrastructure.

Dubai has been testing air taxis since 2017, with German company Volocopter showcasing its two-seat, multi-rotor flying machines. More recently, US-based Joby Aviation threw its hat into the ring by applying for certification to operate commercial air transport in the UAE. While drones and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft have been discussed globally, the UAE is attempting to make them a reality before the rest of the world figures out how to regulate them.

UAE officials claim that their goal is to reduce congestion, improve urban mobility, and position the UAE as a leader in advanced air mobility (AAM). Of course, invisible streets have a few major consequences—like airspace congestion, safety regulations, infrastructure requirements, and public acceptance. Not to mention the logistical nightmare of integrating drones and air taxis with commercial aviation and existing flight corridors.

There’s also the matter of affordability, especially in a part of the industry that has faced continuous funding challenges. Two well-established air taxi developers, Eviation and Lilium, are currently fighting tooth and nail just to keep the lights on.

“Air corridor mapping for piloted and autonomous air taxis and drones is a crucial milestone that will enable the seamless implementation of Advanced Air Mobility into the UAE’s infrastructure,” stated Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA. “This initiative ensures the safe and efficient adoption of air mobility, delivering transformative solutions to urban transport and paving the way for a smarter, more connected future.”

FMI: www.gcaa.gov.ae