Every year, Saudi Arabia introduces new procedures for the convenience of Hajj pilgrims. This time the country’s authorities have a different plan. The Saudi government plans to launch air taxis to transport pilgrims to the Red Sea city of Jeddah and the holy city of Mecca.
Keeping this plan in mind, Saudi Airlines Saudia has signed an agreement to buy 100 Lilium jets. The company will buy German Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (EVTOL) aircraft. The new air taxi can carry six passengers.
Abdullah Al Shahrani, Director of Corporate Communications of Saudia Group, told Saudi media Akhbar 24 that this initiative is being taken to smooth the travel of Umrah pilgrims from Jeddah King Abdulaziz Airport to Makkah Hotel near the Grand Mosque and other holy places.
Al Shahrani said Saudi Airlines is working with the country’s legal institutions to obtain permission to operate such air taxis. But he did not say anything about when the service will be launched.
