Follow Us on Google News
Saudi authorities have taken a groundbreaking step to enhance the Hajj experience by launching a self-driving air taxi trial at the holy sites.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Saudi Arabian Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), aims to revolutionize transportation during the pilgrimage.
The electric flying taxi, reported by state news agency SPA, will transport pilgrims across holy sites, expedite medical emergency responses, and facilitate the delivery of goods and supplies. It is the first of its kind in the world to be licensed by a civil aviation authority, according to Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services.
Al-Jasser observed the autonomous vehicle’s vertical takeoff on Wednesday during the launch event, which was also attended by Rumaih Al-Rumaih, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of GACA, and several representatives from related organizations.
The minister highlighted that the air taxi’s inauguration is part of broader efforts to integrate cutting-edge transport technologies and eco-friendly models utilizing artificial intelligence. Aligned with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, the Kingdom is focused on modernizing its transport sector by introducing air taxi technologies, electric cars, and hydrogen trains.
