Flying Taxis: The Future of Urban Transportation
Flying taxis are rapidly transitioning from a futuristic concept to a reality, and exciting details about their pricing have emerged. In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion in Abu Dhabi by late 2025, Archer Aviation is set to offer air travel across the city—and beyond—at rates comparable to premium car services.
For short, inner-city journeys, passengers can expect to pay between Dhs300 and Dhs350. Imagine bypassing the frustrations of gridlock and soaring through the skies in just 20 to 30 minutes, arriving at your destination fresh and on time. If you need to travel further, such as between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, prices are anticipated to range from Dhs800 to Dhs1,500. While this might not be budget-friendly for everyone, the unique experience and significant time savings could make it worthwhile.
Archer’s innovative flights will utilize the Midnight eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft, a modern and stylish electric taxi capable of carrying up to four passengers and a pilot, reaching speeds of up to 241 km/h. For instance, a quick trip from Abu Dhabi International Airport to Emirates Palace is projected to take only 5 to 8 minutes, a remarkable improvement over the typical 45-minute car ride.
Passenger safety is paramount, with the Midnight aircraft designed with numerous safety features. It boasts an advanced design and robust safety protocols, ensuring that even if one of its twelve propellers fails, the aircraft can still land safely. As Archer finalizes approvals with both US and UAE aviation authorities, they are poised to launch the UAE’s first air taxi service, establishing their international headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
Keep an eye out for ticket sales as the service is set to commence in late 2025. This is an exhilarating development for urban transport.
Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer at Archer Aviation, shared with The National: “We’re in the final stages of obtaining FAA (US Federal Aviation Administration) approval. The process we’re undergoing with the GCAA (UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority) aligns us with a timeline for a commercial launch towards the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026.” He emphasized the importance of safety, stating, “This is why our electric air taxis are generating such high demand. Unlike traditional helicopters that have many single fault parts—meaning a failure could have catastrophic consequences—our electric taxis feature numerous redundant systems. With a dozen electric propellers, if one fails, the aircraft can still operate safely.”
Initially, the pricing for these air taxis will be comparable to an Uber Black or premium town car. However, as operational efficiencies improve, Archer aims to bring prices in line with standard taxi or Uber fares.
You might also like…
- Traveling to Dubai next month? Watch for updates in your passport
Don’t miss out on something special… - Etihad Airways announces ten new destinations, including Thailand
Expand your travel options from DXB with new flights just a short drive away. - New Salik toll gates are officially open
Discover where the new tolls will be located.