The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) issued today the world’s first regulatory framework for hybrid operations, enabling both flying taxis and conventional helicopters to operate interchangeably on the same infrastructure.
This innovative regulatory framework represents a significant leap in integrating advanced air mobility solutions, including electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs), into existing aviation systems.
It also offers a cost-effective model for infrastructure development, accelerates operational readiness and aligns with the UAE government’s directives to implement high-efficiency, non-bureaucratic solutions across various sectors.
Shaping the future of aviation
The hybrid operations framework results from close collaboration with international partners in the advanced air mobility sector and fully aligns with the UAE’s national vision for sustainability, smart mobility and optimized infrastructure use.
“The UAE has always been at the forefront of excellence in aviation. This pioneering regulatory framework does not merely enable new technology; it redefines how aviation evolves. It reflects our commitment to innovation in developing a supportive ecosystem for the growth of this vital sector and a future where advanced air mobility is seamlessly integrated into our national infrastructure,” said Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director-general of the GCAA.
By enabling dual-use between conventional helicopter pads and landing pads for flying taxis, this initiative helps accelerate the implementation timelines in the UAE, optimizes infrastructure utilization and cements the UAE’s position as a leader in fostering an integrated ecosystem supporting the future of aviation.
For his part, Aqeel Al Zarouni, assistant director-general for aviation safety affairs at the GCAA, said that this framework is a strategic enabler, not only for new modes of transport but for a smarter, more flexible regulatory environment that keeps pace with emerging technologies without compromising safety standards.
Read: Dubai completes region’s first Joby Aerial Taxi test flight, says Sheikh Hamdan
Flying taxis set for 2026 launch
The world’s first regulatory framework for hybrid operations comes after the UAE marked a major milestone in the adoption of flying taxis this week. On Monday, Dubai successfully completed the region’s first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi, a fully electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The test flight, conducted by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in partnership with Joby Aviation, took place at a designated site in the Dubai desert. The flying taxi offers fast, zero-emission travel within cities, operating with minimal noise and requiring only a small landing footprint.
“Dubai continues to lead the way in shaping the future of mobility, guided by the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This achievement also reflects our commitment to placing the UAE at the forefront of transformative technologies that drive global progress,” said His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
The aircraft has a range of up to 160 km and a top speed of 320 km/h, with flights such as Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah expected to take just 12 minutes, compared to 45 minutes by car.
The first commercial aerial taxi flights are scheduled for 2026, with station operations launching near Dubai International Airport. The project is part of a broader strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to integrate advanced transport solutions and enhance the quality of life.
