Abu Dhabi's Hybrid Heliport Approved for Electric Air Taxis and Helicopters

The UAE's aviation landscape is set for a major transformation with the approval of the first hybrid heliport in Abu Dhabi, a key development in the nation’s air taxi infrastructure. The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has granted approval to the heliport, which will accommodate both traditional helicopters and the latest in electric aerial vehicles (EAVs). This move is a crucial step in the Abu Dhabi Air Taxi project, a collaboration between Archer Aviation, AD Ports Group, and Falcon Aviation Services.

The heliport is designed to cater to Archer Aviation's Midnight, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that can carry up to four passengers and one pilot. The Midnight is capable of reaching speeds of up to 150 mph and offers a range of 20 to 50 miles per trip, with only a 10-minute battery recharge between flights. The addition of this hybrid heliport represents an effort to integrate cutting-edge technology into the existing aviation infrastructure, making use of assets like Abu Dhabi's cruise terminal at Zayed Port.

"Leveraging existing aviation assets is a cornerstone of our launch strategy,” said Adam Goldstein, CEO and co-founder of Archer Aviation. “It allows us to move both quickly and safely — getting critical infrastructure ready ahead of our planned commercial air taxi launch.”

The heliport's location at Zayed Port positions it as a key launch point for the air taxi services, expected to commence by 2026. The cruise terminal is already a well-established hub for the regional cruise industry, with direct links to the city's cultural and leisure attractions. This integration will ensure seamless transportation for both tourists and residents looking for quicker, more sustainable travel options.

Archer Aviation has been proactive in expanding its air taxi network, having already announced a commercialization program to deploy its fleet in Abu Dhabi with the support of Abu Dhabi Aviation. As part of the project, the two companies will collaborate on pilot training, operations, and community engagement efforts. Archer has received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to launch its pilot training academy, positioning the company to provide training and certification for pilots in preparation for air taxi operations.

In addition to its efforts in the UAE, Archer has raised $300 million to further develop its hybrid aircraft platform, with backing from institutional investors like BlackRock. The company has also partnered with United Airlines to develop a similar air taxi network in New York City, further solidifying its role in the growing urban air mobility market.

Archer's air taxi plans are part of a broader vision for sustainable, electric, and efficient air travel, with the Midnight aircraft offering a glimpse into the future of urban transportation.

For more on similar developments, see Abu Dhabi Launches First Passenger Flight in eVTOL Taxi.