Dubai has launched the maiden flight of the world’s first self-flying taxi. Provided by Germany-based Volocopter, the two-seater Autonomous Air Taxi (
Dubai has launched the maiden flight of the world’s first self-flying taxi. Provided by Germany-based Volocopter, the two-seater Autonomous Air Taxi (AAT) is being introduced by Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and can only carry two people without a human pilot.
Powered by clean electricity and featuring low noise levels, the AAT is an environmentally-friendly vehicle. The current prototype version has a maximum flight time of approximately 30 minutes at a cruise speed of 50 km/h, and a maximum airspeed of 100 km/h.
The AAT is about 2 meters high and the diameter of the rotor rim, including propellers, is just over 7 meters. The AAT has a variety of unique features, including top security and safety standards, it is also fitted with optional emergency parachutes.
But all aspects are expected to evolve as the development continues as it will take at least five years before it goes into public use. The flying taxi service will be available to the public through an app that will allow customers to book flights, receive booking reference details and track the route of the AAT.
Over the next five years, the RTA will collaborate with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority to ensure that the operational requirements for implementing AAT services are put in place.
Over the five years new laws and policies governing certification of the aircraft will be developed.
Arab News
