Saudi Arabia to launch vertiport network to boost advanced air mobility

 

Italian and Saudi firms join hands to launch vertiport network across Saudi Arabia  

Italian vertiport operator UrbanV and Saudi airport management firm Cluster2 have announced a partnership to develop a state-of-the-art vertiport network across Saudi Arabia. This initiative aims to integrate Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) systems, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of sustainable and innovative transportation.

Driving AAM Adoption in Saudi Arabia

UrbanV’s CEO, Carlo Tursi, emphasized the critical role of infrastructure in enabling AAM. “In the early stages of passenger Urban Air Mobility (UAM) operations, establishing a dedicated infrastructure—specifically vertiports—is paramount. UrbanV is committed to designing, developing, and managing vertiports as the backbone of AAM’s success,” he stated.

 

Read More       Saudi Arabia: World's first self-driving flying taxi to revolutionize transportation

 

The project will work in close coordination with Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) to ensure regulatory compliance and alignment with environmental standards.

Adapting to Saudi Arabia’s Unique Challenges

Building vertiports in Saudi Arabia requires addressing the Kingdom’s diverse climate and geographical conditions. From arid deserts to rugged mountains, each site must accommodate extreme weather and seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure.

Tursi highlighted key considerations, noting, “The accessibility of these sites and their connection to electrical infrastructure are critical to ensuring efficient AAM operations.”

To meet these challenges, the designs will vary: some vertiports will feature multiple takeoff and landing pads with spacious parking areas, while others will serve as compact, single-platform hubs.

 

Read More       Saudi Arabia looking to attract $100 billion in aviation investments by 2030

 

Pilot Programs and Future Prospects

UrbanV and Cluster2 plan to roll out pilot programs for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) services, focusing on medical emergencies, VIP transport, and cargo logistics. These initiatives will serve as proof-of-concept models, assessing the feasibility of AAM operations while aligning with Vision 2030’s sustainability goals.

The network represents a significant step toward transforming Saudi Arabia’s air transport landscape, enhancing mobility options and setting new benchmarks for sustainable aviation in the region.

Source: https://zagdaily.com/