Tag Archives: flying taxi

NEWS

Saudi Arabia began testing the autonomous flying taxi for pilgrims

THE first-ever electric air taxi service in the world will begin testing for transporting pilgrims between the holy sites of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafah this year.

The launch was officiated by the Minister of Transport and Logistics and Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Board of Directors Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser in Mecca.

The air taxi is a small commercial aircraft that operates short flights on demand. It is said to be the first of its kind in the world and is licensed by GACA.

The pilotless aircraft will be utilized during this year’s Hajj season, particularly for emergency services, as well as transporting goods and medical supplies to the pilgrims.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics is also working on enhancing smart mobility initiatives and developing laws and regulations to enable the use of modern technology while providing an experimental environment to advance the adoption of various future transportation technologies.

Previously, Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) unveiled plans to operate flying taxis in the future to transport Hajj pilgrims between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and hotels in Mecca.

Saudia also intends to acquire around 100 aircraft for this service.

NEWS

Hyundai Supernal S-A2 flying taxi ‘lands’ in CES 2024

88 Comments

Located at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2024), Hyundai presented its second eVTOL (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) concept model, the S-A2, in a concept form ready for future production.

The S-A2 is actually an enhanced version of the S-A1 concept model showcased at CES 2020, featuring up to eight fan blades to assist in the vertical takeoff and landing process.

According to Hyundai, the S-A2 can fly at speeds of up to 193 km/h at altitudes of up to 457 meters. Despite this capability, Hyundai explains that the eVTOL is designed for short-range flights ranging from 40 to 64 km initially, particularly in large cities with high traffic density.

Hyundai also ensures that the eVTOL’s flight operations do not produce disruptive noise for surrounding residents, with sound levels of only 65dB during takeoff and approximately 45dB while flying—quiet like a home dishwasher.

For short-range flights, the S-A2 cabin space does not require plush and comfortable seating, but Hyundai still ensures it is made of aircraft-grade materials for safety purposes.

Currently, the Supernal S-A2 is not yet ready for operation, but at CES 2024, they have provided an exhibition space offering virtual flights across the airspace of Los Angeles to visitors.