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UAE clears way for flying taxis with latest world-first regulation

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The final version of the regulation will be released in the first quarter of 2023

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority has issued the world’s first national vertiport regulation taking a further step towards the introduction of flying taxis.

The regulation covers the design and operation of vertiports – areas of land, water, or structures used for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. It is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2023 following a period of consultation.

The demand for vertiports continues to increase as eVTOL manufacturers strive to launch their aircraft by 2024.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director-general of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, said: “The proactive development of a regulatory framework for vertiports establishes a foundation within the UAE to ensure safe and seamless operation of urban air mobility.”

In October, the two-seater VTOL electric vehicle, X2, built by Chinese manufacturer Xpeng, made a 90-minute flight in Dubai. The vehicle produces zero carbon dioxide emissions and had been designed with low-altitude city capabilities, reaching a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometres an hour.

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