Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Sep 26: After the driverless metro, Dubai may soon have self-flying air taxis.

The concept of Autonomous Air Taxi (AAT), the world’s first self-flying taxi service was successfully showcased near the Jumeirah Beach Park in Dubai on Monday, September 25.

The two-seater Autonomous Air Taxi (AAT) developed by German drone firm Volocopter is capable of transporting people without human intervention or a pilot.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai who witnessed the maiden test flight said "This is another testament to our commitment to driving positive change. We are constantly exploring opportunities to serve the community and advance the prosperity and happiness of society.”

The service will be operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Powered by clean electricity, and featuring low noise levels, the AAT is an environmentally friendly vehicle, according to RTA. Its current prototype version has a maximum flight time of approximately 30 minutes at a cruise speed of 50km/h, and a maximum airspeed of 100km/h.

Once implemented, RTA’s AATs will be integrated with the emirate’s existing public transport systems, including Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, and marine transit vehicles. They will be made available to the public through a smart mobility app, which will enable users to book flights, receive booking reference details, and track flying taxis’ routes.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said the AAT has "top security and safety standards". "It is also fitted with optional emergency parachutes, nine independent battery systems, and a battery quick-charge and plug-in system."

During the next five years, RTA will collaborate with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) to set out the operational requirements for the implementation of AAT services. This process will involve the development of laws and policies to govern the certification of aircraft and AAT operations within the emirate and at a federal level. Aerial routes and corridors will also be defined, and take-off and landing points will be designed and located.

RTA has appointed US-based autonomous air-vehicle safety firm, JDA Aviation Company, to oversee preparations for, and manage the safety of, AAT flights.