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The Incredible Self-Driving Taxis Are Nearly Ready And Test-Runs Will Start Here Before The End Of The Year

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Trial operations for a self-driving air taxi, or autonomous aerial taxi (AAT) with the ability to transport two passengers will begin before the end of this year.

German VOLOCOPTER Company, a specialist in the manufacturing of Autonomous Air Vehicles are heading up the design stages. The company was chosen for it’s compliance with safety standards and for passing the rigorous standards of the German Aviation Authority, according to the director of the RTA.

Part of the objective to ensure 25% of taxis are autonomous by 2030

And under the directive of HH Sheikh Mohammed, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for Dubai to become one of the smartest cities in the world.

“The AAT is powered by electricity and has high safety features, thanks to its design comprising 18 rotors to ensure safe cruising and landing of the taxi in case of any rotor failure. The air taxi is characterized by its autopilot or autonomous flying, thus enabling the movement of people from place to another without human intervention or a need for flight license holder,”

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

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“RTA strives to provide the best autonomous aerial taxi transit system in the emirate of Dubai in cooperation with flagship companies from around the world.”

As the testing progresses, the RTA is also working to develop legislative and operational guidelines, in preparation for the eventual commercial operation of the autonomous air taxis.

What will your journey be like?

Expect luxurious interiors and leather seats for two people. Each vehicle is environment-friendly as it is powered by clean electricity, has very low noise.

Your max flight time will be approx. 30 minutes at a speed of about 50km/h and a maximum airspeed of 100 km/h.

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