UAE maps out future of flying with air taxis and expanding hubs

The UAE is positioning itself as a laboratory for the future of aviation and a growing hub for traditional air traffic.

Abu Dhabi announced plans today to build 10 “vertiports” for electric air taxis, beginning with sites at Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport.

The project, which is expected to start operations in the next two years, aims to connect key commercial and tourism districts while reducing pressure on road networks, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office said.

Meanwhile, Sir Tim Clark, the longtime chief of Emirates, outlined a vision for his successors that aims to strengthen Dubai’s position as an international flight hub and enlarge its fleet with hundreds of aircraft. 

The blueprint includes moving operations to a new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, building up network routes in Africa and Latin America, and strengthening Emirates’ partnership with budget airline flydubai, Clark told The National.

“With me out of it, at least we would have set them on the path,” Clark said. “What they do with it after that is up to them.”