Dubai Launches World’s First Flying Taxis

Dubai has launched the world’s first self-flying taxi, the Autonomous Air Taxi (AAT).

The AAT, which is the brainchild of Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA), was launched at the Jumeirah Beach Park in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The AAT, which is capable of transporting people without a pilot, was supplied by Volocopter, a Germany-based specialist manufacturer of automated air vehicles, the Dubai Media Office says.

Powered by electricity, the AAT comprises 18 rotors to ensure secure cruising and landing in case of any rotor failure.

“It is environment-friendly as it is powered by clean electricity, and it has very little noise. It has a maximum flight time of approximately 30 minutes at a speed of 50 km per hour, and a maximum air speed of 100 km per hour,” according to RTA.

“After the remarkable success of the first driverless metro in the region, we are glad to witness today the test flight of the Autonomous Air Taxi,” said Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum.

“This is another proof of our commitment to positive change. We are constantly exploring opportunities to serve the community and advance the prosperity and happiness of society,” he added.