Saudi Arabia Launches World’s First Self-Driving Aerial Taxi for Hajj Pilgrims
In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia has introduced a cutting-edge self-driving aerial taxi service for pilgrims participating in this year’s Hajj season. This electric flying taxi is set to revolutionize transportation across holy sites, expedite medical emergency responses, and streamline the delivery of essential supplies, according to state news agency SPA.
Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, proudly announced that this flying taxi is the first of its kind to receive licensing from a civil aviation authority. The inaugural flight took place on Wednesday, with Al-Jasser overseeing the vertical takeoff of the autonomous vehicle in the presence of Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, president of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Rumaih Al-Rumaih, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, and other key stakeholders.
The minister emphasized that the introduction of the air taxi aligns with the country’s commitment to implementing cutting-edge transportation technologies and embracing eco-friendly transport solutions that incorporate artificial intelligence applications. As part of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, Saudi Arabia is dedicated to modernizing its transportation sector through the deployment of air taxi technologies, electric vehicles, and hydrogen trains.
Al-Jasser highlighted the ministry’s focus on enhancing smart mobility and developing the necessary legislation, laws, and systems to support the integration of modern technologies. The goal is to create conducive environments for the expansion of future transport technologies and ensure seamless adoption across various sectors.
GACA’s Al-Duailej lauded the flying taxi as a pivotal initiative within the advanced air mobility roadmap, designed to reduce travel times for passengers in congested areas, particularly during emergencies. The aerial taxi will also facilitate the swift transport of goods and medical supplies, as well as enhance surveillance and inspection capabilities.
This self-driving aerial taxi is just one of 32 innovative technologies implemented to enhance the pilgrimage experience during this year’s Hajj season. Saudi Arabia’s commitment to embracing future transport solutions underscores its dedication to advancing technological progress and improving the overall efficiency of the transportation sector.