Business

 Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE: JOBY), a leader in electric air taxis, has officially started construction on the first vertiport at Dubai International Airport (DXB), a key milestone in Joby’s vision to create a network of vertiports in Dubai. The facility, developed in partnership with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Skyports, marks the first of four initial vertiports planned across Dubai. This project is aimed at establishing a convenient air taxi service by late 2025, with additional vertiports slated for Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and His Highness Maktoum bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, alongside representatives from Joby, RTA, and Skyports.

According to JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, the service will offer “a revolutionary travel experience” for both residents and visitors, enabling rapid transport across Dubai with scenic aerial views. The DXB vertiport, spanning 3,100 square meters over three stories, will seamlessly integrate with the city's transit infrastructure, linking with the Dubai Metro and other transportation options. The vertiport will include two take-off and landing stands, each equipped with Joby’s Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS), allowing for efficient charging between flights.

Joby recently began the certification process for its air taxi operations with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority. Once operational, Joby's air taxis, designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph, will provide a sustainable, quiet alternative to traditional helicopter travel.

• Tags
• #Business
• #Magazine
• #Lifestyle