Jeddah: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has launched an innovative autonomous aerial taxi service for pilgrims during the annual Hajj season.
According to the state news agency SPA, this electric flying taxi will be utilized to transport pilgrims between sacred sites, expedite the transfer of medical emergencies and supplies, and facilitate goods delivery.
Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, announced that this flying taxi holds the distinction of being the world’s first to receive licensing from a civil aviation authority.
At a launch event witnessed by Al-Jasser and attended by Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Rumaih Al-Rumaih, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, as well as other relevant representatives, the vertical takeoff of this autonomous vehicle was demonstrated.
Al-Jasser highlighted that introducing the air taxi aligns with endeavors to implement cutting-edge future transport technologies and embrace innovative environmentally sustainable transport models integrating artificial intelligence applications.
As part of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy objectives, Saudi Arabia is committed to modernizing its transportation sector through initiatives such as air taxi technologies, electric vehicles, and hydrogen-powered trains.
The Ministry is actively engaged in enhancing smart mobility by developing regulations, laws, and systems conducive to leveraging modern technologies. Furthermore, it aims to create test environments that support the expansion of future transport technologies.
Al-Duailej from GACA underscored that the flying taxi represents a key element within the advanced air mobility roadmap. This initiative seeks to reduce travel time for passengers in congested areas during emergencies while also facilitating efficient transportation of goods and medical supplies. Additionally, it streamlines surveillance and inspection tasks expeditiously.
Among 32 contemporary technologies implemented for serving pilgrims during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage is this aerial taxi service.
വാര്ത്തകള് editor@sauditimesonline.com എന്ന വിലാസത്തില് ഇമെയില് ചെയ്യുക. വാര്ത്തകള് അയക്കുന്നവര് പേരും മൊബൈല് നമ്പരും എഴുതാന് മറക്കരുത്.
