Made In UAE: Air Taxis To Hit Skies by 2027 As US Aviation Company Opens Shop In Abu Dhabi

A US-based aviation company — known for developing hybrid-electric aircraft for both regional distances and short-haul ‘air taxi’ routes — is launching operations in the UAE, it was announced on Friday.

The Ministry of Economy said Odys Aviation has officially joined its NextGen FDI program, which supports pioneering businesses in high-potential sectors so they can seamlessly launch and scale their operations in the country.

The company specifically produces hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft that are designed for passengers, cargo and emergency services. Odys Aviation’s aircraft will be able to deliver all-electric propulsion for 320km, with a hybrid-electric range of more than 1,200km. This means they have the potential to reduce carbon emissions on pan-GCC air travel by up to 76 per cent, and provide a zero-carbon travel alternative for all journeys across the UAE.

The California-based start-up plans to launch a full-scale prototype in 2025, with the aircraft entering into service in 2027.

Powered by the MoE’s NextGen FDI programme, the company will be able to set up a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, which will include a high-volume assembly and maintenance plant.

The move will create more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Emirates and would result in the export of the first aircraft manufactured under the “Made in the UAE” certification.

“The new partnership with Odys Aviation marks another important milestone in the UAE’s journey to create a knowledge-based economy, powered by innovation,” said Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade.

“We see significant opportunities for the operation of Odys aircraft across the UAE in civilian, cargo and civil defence activities, and we look forward to developing a new sustainable, low-carbon aviation sector — from clean energy air travel through to advanced manufacturing and research and development capabilities. Our NextGen FDI program is helping to transform the UAE’s advanced manufacturing and industrial sector and create new clusters of excellence around world-changing ideas.”