(Web Desk) - Saudi Arabia has introduced an innovative self-driving aerial taxi service for pilgrims during the current Hajj season.
This electric flying taxi will efficiently transport pilgrims across holy sites, assist in swift medical emergencies response and supply delivery, as reported by the state news agency, Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, hailed the achievement, noting that this flying taxi is the world's first to receive licensing from a Civil Aviation authority (CAA).
The inaugural event witnessed the vertical takeoff of the autonomous vehicle, attended by key figures including Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and Rumaih Al-Rumaih, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Services.
Al-Jasser emphasized that the introduction of the air taxi aligns with the country's commitment to employing cutting-edge future transport technologies and embracing innovative, environmentally friendly transport models utilizing artificial intelligence applications.
This initiative falls under the broader goals of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which seeks to modernize the transport sector through the deployment of air taxi technologies, electric vehicles, and hydrogen trains.
Furthermore, Al-Jasser outlined the ministry's efforts in enhancing smart mobility and developing relevant legislation, laws, and systems to support the integration of modern technologies.
The ministry aims to create experimental environments conducive to the expansion of future transport technologies.
Abdulaziz Al-Duailej of GACA highlighted the significance of the flying taxi as part of the advanced air mobility roadmap.
This roadmap aims to reduce passenger travel time in congested areas, particularly during emergencies, facilitate the transportation of goods and medical supplies, and expedite surveillance and inspection tasks.
The aerial taxi is just one of the 32 modern technologies implemented to serve pilgrims during this year's Hajj season.
This introduction marks a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia's efforts to modernize transportation and enhance the overall Hajj experience for pilgrims.