The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has unveiled the world’s first regulatory framework allowing electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and conventional helicopters to operate on shared infrastructure, marking a major milestone in advanced air mobility.
The new framework enables hybrid operations across existing heliports and future eVTOL pads, streamlining infrastructure use and accelerating deployment timelines. It is designed to foster seamless integration of next-generation aircraft into the nation’s airspace while maintaining safety and operational efficiency.
GCAA Director-General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi described the move as a redefinition of aviation’s evolution.
“This pioneering regulatory framework does not merely enable new technology; it reflects our commitment to innovation and a future where advanced air mobility is seamlessly integrated into national infrastructure,”
he said.
Developed in collaboration with international partners, the framework supports the UAE’s broader goals for sustainability, smart mobility, and efficient infrastructure use. It also aligns with the government’s vision for streamlined, non-bureaucratic innovation across sectors.
Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director-General for Aviation Safety Affairs, emphasized that the initiative ensures a flexible, future-ready regulatory environment without compromising safety standards.
With this step, the UAE strengthens its global leadership in aviation, setting the groundwork for a smarter and more sustainable air transport ecosystem.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
