Saudi Arabia's air taxi regulations: 25-mile limit for overflights
In a strategic move that reinforces Saudi Arabia's position as a global logistics hub and a leader in future transportation, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has launched a new and innovative regulatory framework through its online platform, "Istilaa." This framework, part of Part 100 of the Civil Aviation Regulations, aims to regulate the Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft sector, commonly known as "air taxis," thus laying the legislative foundation for this promising sector.
Strategic context and future vision
These regulatory moves are perfectly aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Aviation Strategy, which aim to enable Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). This regulation is a proactive step to keep pace with the rapid global transformations in the aviation industry, as countries and major companies race to adopt urban air transport solutions to reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. Through these regulations, the Kingdom is creating a legislative environment conducive to integrating these technologies into its mega-projects such as NEOM and AlUla, making it a fertile ground for investment in modern aviation technologies.
Bridging the regulatory gap with flexible standards
The authority explained that the new regulation was specifically designed to bridge the regulatory gap that modern aircraft faced when applying traditional systems designed for fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters. The authority emphasized its adoption of a flexible approach based on "risk management" and "performance evaluation," moving away from the rigid application of traditional requirements that are incompatible with the unique technical characteristics of VTOL aircraft, in order to ensure the highest safety standards without hindering innovation.
25 nautical miles: A new definition of overflight
One of the most significant amendments included in the regulations is the redefinition of "cross-country" requirements to align with the operational capabilities of air taxis. The authority has approved flights exceeding 25 nautical miles as cross-country flights, instead of the longer distances required for conventional aircraft. This classification necessitates the use of approved navigation systems (visual or electronic), which facilitates pilot training and provides them with the necessary practical experience in a realistic manner, without imposing unnecessary operational burdens incompatible with the nature of these aircraft operating within cities.
Innovative solutions for training and qualification
To ensure a smooth launch for the sector, the regulations provided practical solutions for qualifying human resources. They allowed test pilots and instructors working for VTOL aircraft manufacturers to conduct training programs and certify personnel under the Authority's supervision, without requiring them to first hold a traditional flight instructor license. This measure aims to efficiently transfer precise technical knowledge from manufacturers to local operators.
Classifications and dealing with modern technology
The regulations included detailed information on flight classifications, allowing for a temporary "Visual Flight Only" (VFR Only) classification, with a timeline for transitioning to automated flight. They also regulated the role of the second-in-command pilot and mandated the use of advanced simulators as a core component of required flight hours, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to adopting the latest training methods to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs and risks.
