The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has approved the design for converting the existing helipad at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal into a hybrid heliport, capable of accommodating both conventional helicopters and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

The project is a joint initiative between eVTOL manufacturer Archer and its infrastructure partner Falcon Aviation, in coordination with the GCAA.

The site is set to become Abu Dhabi’s first hybrid heliport, supporting the launch of early commercial air taxi operations. It forms part of Archer’s broader infrastructure network in the UAE, with initial operations planned in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA).

The GCAA has become the first civil aviation authority in the world to develop regulatory standards specifically for hybrid aviation infrastructure. Following an industry-wide consultation process, these guidelines will be published by July 2025 and aim to ensure safety, interoperability, and efficiency.

Upgrades to the site will include charging infrastructure and enhanced landing and safety systems, enabling eVTOL operations while leveraging existing airspace, zoning, and facilities. This approach could significantly reduce the cost and time typically required to build a dedicated vertiport.

Strategically located at a cruise terminal that welcomes over 650,000 visitors annually, the site offers strong connectivity to key landmarks, including Zayed Port, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Corniche, and the upcoming Saadiyat Cultural District.

Officials emphasized the broader significance of the project. “This milestone is not just about infrastructure—it reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to innovation and global leadership in Advanced Air Mobility,” said H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA.

Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General for Aviation Safety at the GCAA, said the new regulatory framework will support the safe and efficient integration of helicopters and eVTOL aircraft into a unified air mobility system.

Archer CEO Adam Goldstein emphasized that leveraging existing infrastructure is a key part of the company’s strategy, enabling faster operations deployment.

Captain Ramandeep Oberoi, CEO of Falcon Aviation, described the transformation of the cruise terminal heliport as a significant step toward advancing tourism and sustainable air mobility in the region.

Dubai-based aviation design and consulting firm Air Synapsis also played a key role in the project, overseeing apron and airspace planning for the hybrid heliport.