Jeddah to Makkah fast air taxis for pilgrims

Jeddah to Makkah fast air taxis for pilgrims. Saudi Arabia’s national airline, according to an official statement, intends to establish an air service facilitating pilgrims’ travel from Jeddah to the Makkah Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Abdullah Al Shahrani, the director of corporate communication, revealed that Saudi Airlines has entered into an agreement with the German company “Lilium” to purchase 100 fully electric eVTOL vertical take-off and landing aircraft.

Jeddah to Makkah fast air taxis for pilgrims

These jets, accommodating up to six people and covering a maximum distance of 200 km, will connect King Abdulaziz airport in Jeddah with landing strips near the Grand Mosque and other sacred locations in Makkah.

The commencement date of this service remains undisclosed as the airline collaborates with the legal system to secure flying permits for these electric aircraft.

The initiative aims to bring a “qualitative” change to transportation during Umrah and Hajj seasons, pivotal religious pilgrimages in Islam. With nearly 2 million individuals performing Hajj and a record 13.5 million partaking in Umrah last year, Saudi Arabia has been expanding facilities, allowing various entry methods and easing regulations for pilgrims and visitors alike.