Flying taxis will move Haj pilgrims from Makkah to Jeddah
Travelers traveling for the Haj or Umrah will be able to take flights called “air taxis” from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to Makkah hotels. Saudi Arabia’s national airline is one of the first airlines in the Mena area to engage in sustainable air mobility with aspirations to purchase 100 all-electric Lilium Jets, the German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The Saudia Group’s spokesman, Abdullah Al Shahrani, director of corporate communications, said the airline is getting ready to introduce air taxis as a new means of transportation during the Haj season.
According to Al Shahrani, since the flying taxis can go a maximum of 250 km, they can carry four to six passengers and reduce flight times. Additionally, the aircraft has a distinctive cabin with multiple seat configuration choices.
According to local media, the Saudia Group has agreed to buy 100 Lilium planes to operate as a shuttle between the Jeddah airport and airstrips in Makkah hotels close to the Grand Mosque and other sacred sites.
The national flag carrier will be able to contribute to the nation’s sustainable air transportation development strategy thanks to the Lilium Jet’s zero operational emissions, which will make travel both time- and environmentally-friendly.
Saudi Arabia would also assist Lilium in obtaining any further regulatory clearances that would be needed as well as the country’s regulatory approval procedures for the certification of the Lilium Jet. With its famous service and hospitality, Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, currently flies to over 100 domestic and international destinations.