Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser announced that this aerial taxi is the world’s first licensed by a civil aviation authority. The launch event featured the vertical takeoff of the autonomous vehicle, attended by key figures such as Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, president of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and Rumaih Al-Rumaih, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Services.
The aerial taxi will be part of Saudi’s innovative broader efforts
Al-Jasser emphasized that this initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to integrate cutting-edge transport technologies and promote innovative, eco-friendly transport models powered by artificial intelligence. This move aligns with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy’s objectives to modernize the transport sector with air taxis, electric cars, and hydrogen trains. The ministry is focused on enhancing smart mobility by developing supportive legislation and systems.
The flying taxi will have multiple useful purposes during Hajj
GACA’s president, Al-Duailej, highlighted the flying taxi as a key element of the advanced air mobility roadmap, aimed at reducing travel time in congested areas, especially during emergencies, and facilitating the swift transport of goods and medical supplies.
This technology is among 32 modern advancements introduced to enhance the Hajj experience for pilgrims, marking a significant leap forward in the Kingdom’s transport sector.