Flying taxi heliport secures design go-ahead in Abu Dhabi

The era of flying taxis is one step closer to reality in Abu Dhabi after the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority approved designs for a hybrid heliport at Zayed Port’s cruise terminal.

Developed in a partnership between the UAE’s AD Ports Group and Falcon Aviation, together with California-based Archer Aviation, the facility will be able to serve traditional helicopters as well as eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft, The National reports.

Earlier this year, the UAE started mapping out air corridors for air taxis and cargo drones, and the GCAA has now finalized a new regulatory framework for air transport services, due to be published by July.

The new heliport was chosen for its proximity to major attractions on Saadiyat Island, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and will become a key launch point for air taxi services planned for next year.

“We are enabling a future where sustainable, high-tech air transport becomes a core part of our urban landscape,” said GCAA Director General Saif Al Suwaidi. “This approval represents a new era for civil aviation, driven by partnership and vision.”