Abu Dhabi Cleared for Takeoff: First Hybrid Heliport for eVTOL Aircraft Approved

Abu Dhabi is set to become a pioneer in urban air mobility after the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) granted design approval for the nation’s first hybrid heliport, which will accommodate both traditional helicopters and state-of-the-art electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

This project, led by Archer Aviation in collaboration with Falcon Aviation, will convert the existing helipad at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal into a cutting-edge facility equipped with charging infrastructure and upgraded landing and safety systems to support eVTOL operations.

The hybrid heliport will provide direct access to major city landmarks such as Abu Dhabi Port, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, and the Corniche, serving as a gateway for both residents and the over 650,000 annual cruise terminal visitors.

Notably, the GCAA is the world’s first civil aviation authority to establish regulatory standards for such hybrid infrastructure, following consultations with industry stakeholders. These standards are set for publication by July 2025, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to innovative transportation solutions and sustainable urban development.

This move marks a significant step toward the launch of commercial air taxi services in the UAE, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s strategy of leveraging existing aviation assets to accelerate the integration of next-generation urban air mobility technologies.