Saudi Arabia introduces flying taxis for pilgrims to Mecca
Saudi Arabia has unveiled ambitious plans to introduce flying taxis to transform the travel experience for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims by providing on-demand services to Mecca. These planes will take off from Jeddah's King Abdulaziz International Airport, designed for runways located in close proximity to holy sites in the city.
This innovative transportation solution is designed to provide fast and convenient travel to Mecca, bringing the city closer to pilgrims and tourists within a short flight. This is reported by travelandtourworld.com.
The initiative, led by Saudia, the kingdom's main carrier, involves the purchase of about 100 aircraft to ensure the smooth operation of this advanced service. The Lilium aircraft, a product of German engineering known for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) capabilities, has been selected for these flying taxis. The planes are designed to facilitate transit between Jeddah Abdul Aziz International Airport and the vicinity of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, where most residential areas are located.
Lilium Jets are innovative all-electric aircraft designed to accommodate four to six passengers. They boast a special cabin layout, offering different seating configurations and enough space to guarantee a first-class travel experience for their valued passengers. In addition to being luxurious, these flying taxis are known for their environmental benefits and ability to cover distances of up to 250 kilometers.
Looking to the future, Saudi Arabia plans to integrate these flying taxis into a wider network, connecting them to several other key destinations. This network will cover the main airports where Saudi Airlines operates, further extending the reach and convenience of the revolutionary service.
The introduction of flying taxis in Saudi Arabia could have a significant impact on tourism, especially for those traveling for the religious pilgrimage to Mecca. Not only does this service promise to make travel faster and more convenient, but it also aligns with global sustainability goals through the use of electric-powered aircraft.
The use of flying taxis is expected to improve the overall experience of pilgrims performing the Hajj and Umrah, potentially increasing the number of visitors who can participate in these spiritual journeys. Moreover, by expanding this service to other destinations, Saudi Arabia is likely to see a boost in its tourism sector, attracting a wider audience interested in this innovative way of traveling.
Previously, TravelWise reported on Saudi Arabia's dynamic approach to the global travel and tourism program.