In Dubai, the future is now. Decades ago, many still remember the iconic scene in which Doc Brown shows Marty McFly the famous DeLorean, a car capable of flying to travel through time. The expectation was that, in 2015, as the iconic movie “Back to the Future” indicated, we would be traveling in flying cars. However, it is in 2025 when this dream, which seemed like pure science fiction, will finally come true.
Thanks to a multi-million dollar investment, what once seemed impossible will take shape in 2025, when flying taxis will be deployed in the skies of the United States and, shortly after, in Dubai. This advance will mark the beginning of a new era in urban mobility.
The “midnight” project: the flying taxi that will revolutionize transport
The “Midnight” flying taxi is an electric aircraft designed to carry up to four passengers, with vertical take-off and landing capabilities. Its structure has a dozen independent propellers that minimize risks and a wing that allows gliding in case of engine failure. With a range of 100 miles and a top speed of 150 miles per hour, this innovative vehicle is presented as an efficient and sustainable transportation solution.
The first test flights are already underway in California, and official certification by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration is expected in 2025. Following its introduction in the U.S., Dubai and India will be the next markets where the Midnight will begin operating, with flights scheduled for 2026.
This type of vehicle, classified as eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing), not only promises to revolutionize the way we travel but also has the potential to significantly reduce congestion in large cities. Unlike helicopters, these flying taxis are much quieter, which allows them to operate in urban areas without causing significant disturbance. In addition, their electric operation contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Cost of the trip in the new air taxis
Initially, the estimated cost of traveling in these flying taxis will be between 4 and 5 dollars per passenger per kilometer. However, prices are expected to decrease progressively during the first years of operation. This cost may seem high compared to traditional taxis or ride-sharing services, but the time saved on long journeys could justify the investment for many users.
As eVTOL technology advances and the production of these vehicles is scaled up, the cost per trip is expected to decrease drastically, making access to this type of transportation more democratic. In addition, the integration of these flying taxis into the urban ecosystem will require the creation of new infrastructure, such as helipads or “vertiports”, which facilitate take-off and landing at strategic points in cities.
In conclusion, flying taxis such as the “Midnight” represent a bold step towards the future of urban mobility. While there are still challenges to overcome, such as regulation and public acceptance, the potential of this technology to transform our cities is undeniable. In a few years, what was once just a cinematic dream could become a daily reality for millions of people around the world.
