The United Arab Emirate (UAE) has launched the world's first self-flying taxi at the Jumeirah Beach in Dubai. The launch was coordinated by the Autonomous Air Taxi (AAT) of Dubai after the taxi was fabricated by Volocopter, a Germany-based specialist manufacturer of automated air vehicles. Volocopter was engaged by the Dubai's Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to execute the project.
The self-flying taxi is capable of transporting two people without human intervention. The taxi which is expected to commence operation in the fourth quarter is powered by electricity. It reportedly has 18 rotors to ensure smooth cruising and safe landing.
The RTA in a statement said “It is environment-friendly as it is powered by clean electricity, and it has very little noise. It has a maximum flight time of approximately 30 minutes at a speed of 50 km per hour, and a maximum air speed of 100 km per hour."
The crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum expressed happiness over the development and said the launch would revolutionarize the transport system in the country.
“After the remarkable success of the first driverless metro in the region, we are glad to witness today the test flight of the Autonomous Air Taxi. This is another proof of our commitment to positive change. We are constantly exploring opportunities to serve the community and advance the prosperity and happiness of society."
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