Commercial “flying taxi” services, using electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, are preparing to begin operations in 2026, with the United Arab Emirates and China emerging as leading countries in this field.
American company Joby Aviation, backed by Toyota Motor, is looking to be at the forefront of this development in Dubai, through an exclusive six-year agreement with the Roads and Transport Authority, which is responsible for managing the city’s metro and taxis. The company presented a demonstration of a test aircraft at the Dubai Airshow last November, where the electric aircraft with six propellers took off from Al Maktoum International Airport and flew for a quarter of an hour in front of thousands of spectators.
The aircraft seats five passengers and features two large screens displaying information about altitude and flight position, providing a comfortable and fast travel experience. For example, the distance between Dubai International Airport and Palm Island, which is 37 kilometers, can be covered in about 10 minutes, while the car journey takes about an hour.
In Abu Dhabi, American company Archer Aviation is looking to launch a flying taxi service in 2026, while the government is working on developing the necessary systems and laws to attract foreign investment in this sector.
In China, the EH216-S aircraft from EHang has obtained an air operator certificate, paving the way for the provision of commercial services, starting with tourist flights. The aircraft is characterized by its ability to fly independently without the need for a pilot. The company is also working to train one hundred employees to support ground operations by the beginning of 2026.
China has announced its support for the development of the “low-altitude economy,” which includes eVTOL aircraft and drones at altitudes of less than 1,000 meters, and providing financial and legislative support for this sector.
While the United States and Japan are preparing to expand commercial production of eVTOL aircraft and plan to launch similar services between 2026 and 2027, the Emirates and China appear to be moving faster towards achieving the commercial launch of this revolutionary technology.
