The Emirates News Agency (WAM) reports that a new study by researchers from the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) has identified critical barriers that must be addressed before air taxis can become a viable mode of urban transportation in emerging economies.
“The research provides a structured framework that can help governments, regulators, investors, and industry stakeholders develop effective strategies for introducing Urban Air Mobility (UAM) safely and successfully,” said the report. “Published in the International Journal of Mathematical, Engineering and Management Sciences, the study, Analyzing the Barriers of Adopting Air Taxis in Emerging Economy Context: A Decision-Making Framework, was led by Professor Tahseen Arshi of AURAK’s School of Business in collaboration with researchers from India.
The research identified 17 major barriers grouped under four broad categories: technological, organizational, environmental, and human factors. Using the Technology-Organisation-Environment-Human (TOEH) framework, along with Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) and MICMAC analysis, the researchers showed how these barriers influence one another and which issues require priority attention.
“The most influential challenges include regulatory and legal uncertainty, effective airspace management, technological readiness, infrastructure development, investment requirements, public trust, safety concerns, and awareness of the technology,” said the report. “The study found that regulatory ambiguity has the greatest driving influence, suggesting that clear policy frameworks and standards are essential before other challenges can be effectively addressed.
“The findings come at a particularly relevant time for the UAE, which is positioning itself among the world’s pioneers in advanced air mobility. Dubai has already announced plans to launch commercial air taxi services and is investing heavily in the supporting regulatory and infrastructure ecosystem.”
For more information
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/c29xz6k-aurak-research-identifies-key-barriers-air-taxi
(Image: WAM)