Saudia to offer air taxi service between Jeddah, Makkah for pilgrims

Image: Lilium

Saudia (also known as Saudi Arabian Airlines) has shared plans to operate air taxis to transport Hajj pilgrims between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and hotels in Makkah.

The airline intends to buy around 100 aircraft to operate the service, according to a Saudi Gazette report.

Abdullah Al-Shahrani, director of corporate communications and spokesman of the Saudia Group, was quoted in the report, saying that the carrier is making preparations to use air taxis as a new offering during the Hajj season.

The group aims to purchase 100 Lilium jets and German-made electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft to operate between the Jeddah airport and airstrips in Makkah hotels near the Grand Mosque and other holy places.

Al-Shahrani shared that flying taxis can transport four to six passengers and have a low carbon emission rate.

He said that the aircraft also features a unique cabin that offers several options for seat arrangement.

Al-Shahrani shared that the company will work to support Lilium by providing all the necessary regulatory approvals to operate this type of aircraft in the Saudi market.

Saudia company receives licence to serve pilgrims

In other news, on January 10, Saudia Hajj and Umrah obtained a license from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to serve 10,000 pilgrims.

The announcement follows the recent launch of Saudia Hajj and Umrah to enhance the pilgrimage experience.

Saudia Hajj and Umrah offer packages that cover flight bookings at both domestic and international airports, accommodation, transportation between cities, and visits to Islamic historical sites.

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