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UAE vertiports: GCAA, Skyports to bolster hybrid operations

The MoU builds on the world’s first national regulation for clean energy-powered vertiports published by the GCAA last year

by Gulf Business

May 18, 2024

Vertiports Image courtesy DRIFTx For illustrative purposes only

Image: AD Mobility (for illustrative purposes)

The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Skyports to bolster national regulations governing clean energy-powered vertiports.

The MoU aims to establish standards tailored for hybrid operations at vertiports, fostering operational flexibility and maximising the utilisation of existing vertiport infrastructure across the UAE.

The GCAA, in its pursuit of comprehensive standards, seeks to facilitate hybrid operations while ensuring the seamless integration of emerging technologies within the country’s aviation sector.

Leveraging Skyports’ expertise in innovative infrastructure solutions, the collaboration will enable advancements in aviation regulations.

This initiative builds upon the landmark achievement of the world’s first national regulation for clean energy-powered vertiports, spearheaded by the GCAA in 2023.

MOU between GCAA and Skyports to enhance regulations for clean energy vertiports — Image: WAM

Regulatory framework for vertiports to underscore future of aviation

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director-general of GCAA, remarked, “The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to shape the future of aviation in the UAE. Through our collaboration with Skyports, we aim to not only enhance our regulatory framework but also expedite the integration of advanced air mobility solutions into the country’s infrastructure.

Duncan Walker, CEO and founder of Skyports, emphasised the pivotal nature of the partnership in advancing the integration of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations with traditional aviation operations.

He said the collaboration is a key milestone in the journey towards realising a seamless and sustainable aviation ecosystem.

Read: Abu Dhabi unveils first operational vertiport for eVTOLs

In recent news, Skyports signed an MoU with Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority earlier this month.

Under the terms of the MoU, Skyports will collaboratively design, develop, and operate Ras Al Khaimah’s first eVTOL ecosystem, with commercial operations set to commence by 2027.