en.Wedoany.com Reported - The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Skyports Infrastructure announced on July 6 that the world's first commercial vertiport (VDX) built specifically for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft has received regulatory certification. Located in Dubai, the facility will serve as the main hub for the urban air taxi network.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, described the certification as a "historic" achievement for the UAE and a "defining moment" for the future of aviation. He stated that it reflects the leadership's vision, the maturity of the regulatory system, and the nation's ability to drive innovation while maintaining the highest safety standards.

The certification of the VDX paves the way for Joby Aviation to launch air taxi services. In 2024, the U.S. company signed an exclusive agreement with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, granting it permission to operate eVTOL air taxi services in the emirate for six years.

Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports Infrastructure, said that this certification, along with the broader Dubai air taxi network under development, brings the launch of commercial air taxi operations closer to reality.

The four-story vertiport covers approximately 3,100 square meters (33,368 square feet), featuring two dedicated takeoff and landing areas, rapid charging infrastructure, and passenger facilities designed for high throughput. Once operational, it is expected to accommodate up to 170,000 passengers annually.

Prior to certification, the GCAA conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the VDX. The GCAA stated that the certification supports the goals of the "We the UAE 2031" vision and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 by driving innovation, attracting investment, diversifying the economy, and promoting sustainable transportation.

Skyports Infrastructure is currently developing three additional vertiports in collaboration with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority.