Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports), a London-based vertiport provider for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), announced a Definitive Agreement with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and electric aircraft company Joby Aviation for passenger air taxi services in Dubai by 2026, on Sunday (Feb. 11).
Endorsed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, Prime Minister, and Vice President of the UAE, the agreement grants Skyports exclusive rights to build and operate vertiports in Dubai.
“Today marks a significant step towards the launch of commercial air taxi services in Dubai. The industry has never been closer to making it a reality,” said Duncan Walker, founder and CEO of Skyports. “This agreement brings together the key enablers of advanced air mobility: strong, innovative local leadership; a world-leading aircraft partner; and critical ground infrastructure integrated with the Emirate’s existing transportation networks.”
“The strategic positioning of our vertiports in key locations across Dubai will enhance connectivity and provide a faster travel option for residents and visitors. With the Definitive Agreement signed, now begins the exciting part: designing and building our vertiports.”
“The Dubai air taxi initiative is part of RTA’s efforts to embrace future transportation technologies and enable fast, safe, and convenient travel to key city spots. Skyports’ vertiports will stand out for their innovative design, which facilitates seamless multimodal transportation and improves citywide connectivity, ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.
“Today’s landmark agreement delivers on all three ingredients required to successfully launch an air taxi service – a definitive path to operations, well-placed infrastructure supported by dedicated partners, and an aircraft with the capacity and range to deliver meaningful journeys,” said JoeBen Bevirt, CEO and founder, of Joby Aviation. “We’re looking forward to delivering an incredible experience for residents and visitors to Dubai as early as 2025 and we’re excited to be laying the groundwork for the expansion of our service across the wider UAE.”
Dubai will pioneer the first commercial, city-wide electric air taxi service, integrating with RTA’s public transport network to enhance connectivity. Initial vertiport locations include DXB, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Downtown, and Dubai Marina, aiming to significantly reduce journey times.
Detailed studies have been completed at these locations and architectural design has commenced for the first phase of development. Skyports’ vertiport certification and approval process has begun with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Dubai Air Navigation Services (DANS), and other related government stakeholders.
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