Abu Dhabi-based Falcon Aviation Services is preparing to introduce air taxi services in the UAE, with the launch slated for January 1, 2026.
The company, led by CEO Ramandeep Oberoi, is partnering with US-based electric flying car manufacturer Archer Aviation to create an innovative air transportation solution aimed at alleviating road traffic congestion in the country’s busy urban centers.
In a significant move towards making urban air mobility a reality, Falcon Aviation and Archer Aviation signed an agreement in March 2024 to develop vertiport infrastructure at strategic locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The partnership will focus on the construction of state-of-the-art vertiports at prominent landmarks such as Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai and the Marina Mall heliport in Abu Dhabi’s Corniche.
These vertiports will serve as critical hubs for the flying taxi service, using Archer’s Midnight electric flying car to transport passengers between the two cities in under 30 minutes, offering a scenic flight largely over water.
Oberoi emphasized that the initiative, while initially aimed at providing a unique experience, will soon evolve into a crucial mode of transport to combat the UAE’s growing traffic issues.
“Initially, flying taxis will operate within Abu Dhabi, and we aim to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai by mid-2026,” said Oberoi. “We plan to expand this network to connect Dubai with Ras Al Khaimah, especially for projects like the Wynn Resort, and eventually reach Al Ain.”
The concept of flying taxis has gained significant attention in recent years, as both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are aggressively pursuing this new mode of transport.
Falcon Aviation’s partnership with Archer Aviation is part of a larger government-backed effort to bring cutting-edge transportation solutions to the UAE.
The flying taxis will offer passengers a quick and efficient means of travel, bypassing the roads to avoid traffic bottlenecks.
To ensure the success of the venture, Falcon Aviation has already begun preparations for a series of trials, which are scheduled to begin in May 2025. The trials will take place in Al Ain for 3 to 4 months, followed by additional testing in Abu Dhabi.
These tests will take place under the region’s hot and dusty conditions, an essential factor in adapting the aircraft to the UAE’s unique climate. Currently, Archer Aviation is conducting tests in California before the models are flown in the UAE.
As part of the recruitment process, Oberoi noted that the company is taking a measured approach, with some personnel being brought in from the US who are already familiar with the project.
Additionally, the company will be hiring local staff to manage ground operations and vertiports, as well as engineering teams to maintain the aircraft.
In terms of airfares, Falcon Aviation is still in discussions with partners and stakeholders about pricing.
However, Oberoi suggested that the company is targeting a fare of approximately Dh1,000 for a one-way trip between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with the possibility of higher fares at launch.
The goal is to set the price at about double the cost of a traditional taxi fare, with in-city fares potentially priced around Dh300. “These numbers are on paper now, but the reality could differ,” he explained.
The introduction of air taxis in the UAE marks a major step forward in the country’s efforts to become a global leader in urban air mobility, with the ambitious goal of integrating flying cars into everyday transportation in the near future.