Archer is transforming Abu Dhabi’s Cruise Terminal helipad into a hybrid heliport for helicopters and eVTOLs, marking a significant step toward commercial air taxi operations in the UAE
By Joe Macey
www.aaminternational.com
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has granted approval for the transformation of the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal helipad into a hybrid heliport, accommodating both helicopters and eVTOL aircraft operations.
Archer, in collaboration with its infrastructure partner Falcon Aviation and in close coordination with the GCAA, is spearheading this project. Once completed, the facility is poised to become the first hybrid heliport in Abu Dhabi, serving as a key hub for early commercial air taxi services. This development is an integral part of Archer’s expanding infrastructure network in the UAE, with initial operations planned in partnership with Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA).
The GCAA has also taken a pioneering role by becoming the first civil aviation authority worldwide to establish regulatory standards for hybrid infrastructure. This new framework is designed to ensure the safe, interoperable, and efficient operation of both helicopters and eVTOL aircraft on a single platform. After consultation with industry stakeholders, these standards are nearing completion and are expected to be published by July 2025, marking a major step in integrating advanced air mobility into established aviation systems.
In line with these regulations, Archer and its partners are upgrading the helipad with essential charging infrastructure and enhancements to landing and safety systems, making it suitable for eVTOL operations. By repurposing an existing facility, Archer benefits from pre-existing airspace regulations, zoning, and infrastructure, avoiding the time and cost involved in constructing a new vertiport.
Image depicting planned operations.
H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, said, “This milestone is not just about infrastructure—it reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to innovation and global leadership in Advanced Air Mobility. Through our close collaboration with Archer and Falcon Aviation Services, we are enabling a future where sustainable, high-tech air transport becomes a core part of our urban landscape. This approval represents a new era for civil aviation, driven by partnership and vision.”
Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General of the GCAA – Aviation Safety Affairs Sector, said, “By developing the world’s first regulatory standards for hybrid infrastructure, the GCAA is positioning the UAE at the forefront of global aviation innovation. This framework ensures that our air mobility infrastructure is safe, efficient, and adaptable—laying the foundation for the seamless integration of both helicopters and next-generation eVTOL aircraft within a unified operational environment.”
Adam Goldstein, CEO and co-founder of Archer, added, “Leveraging existing aviation assets is a cornerstone of our launch strategy. It allows us to move both quickly and safely—getting critical infrastructure ready ahead of our planned commercial launch. This achievement has only been possible through strong partnerships with the GCAA, ADIO and our local operating partners.”
Captain Ramandeep Oberoi, CEO of Falcon Aviation Services, added, “This heliport has long served as a gateway for visitors to explore Abu Dhabi from the sky, and its transformation into a hybrid heliport marks an exciting new chapter. We are proud to support the UAE’s vision by introducing future-ready infrastructure that not only enhances our tourism offering but also supports the shift toward more sustainable and advanced air mobility solutions.”
The location at the cruise terminal was strategically chosen due to its high foot traffic, with over 650,000 tourists visiting annually. Situated at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s cultural and leisure scene, the site provides convenient access to landmarks such as Abu Dhabi Port, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the future Saadiyat Cultural District, and the Corniche. The project also benefits from the expertise of Air Synapsis, a Dubai-based company specializing in heliport and vertiport design, supply, and project management, who contributed to the apron and airspace design for this innovative hybrid facility.
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