Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-04-01 13:32:24
A Russian innovation center has launched unmanned taxis that will be operating in Kenya, as announced by the Russian Embassy in Kenya on Monday, April 1. The embassy stated that the innovation center would collaborate with local partners for this initiative. Testing of the flying taxis is set to commence soon in select areas before a mass rollout.
The first flights of these unmanned taxis will operate between Nairobi (Wilson) and Diani (Ukunda). This route is significant as Diani is a popular tourist destination in Kenya. The exact cost of these rides has not been disclosed yet. The innovation center first announced the development of unmanned aerial vehicle movement in 2022, leading to the introduction of flying taxis in Kenya.
With the launch of these flying taxis, Kenya will be joining a select group of countries around the world that have operational autonomous drone taxis. In 2023, Israel successfully conducted tests for flying taxis that could transport both passengers and luggage. Major global players like the United States and China are also working towards achieving this milestone by 2025. Kenya had originally targeted 2025 as the year for the launch of its flying taxis.
Notably, in November 2023, the Civil Aviation Administration of China granted approval to a company to operate unmanned aircraft systems, further emphasizing the progression towards autonomous air transportation. While the local companies that will partner with the Russian company in operating the flying taxis have not been disclosed yet, this collaboration marks a significant step towards advancing air transportation technology in Kenya.
In a related event, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov was welcomed by the President of Kenya, Dr. William Samoei Ruto, at State House in Nairobi on Monday, May 29, 2023, indicating the strong ties between the two nations. This development not only showcases the technological advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles but also highlights the growing cooperation between Russia and Kenya in the field of aviation.
The introduction of unmanned taxis in Kenya heralds a new era of transportation in the country, offering a glimpse into the future of aerial mobility. As advancements in autonomous drone technology continue to expand globally, the collaboration between Russia and Kenya in this venture signifies a significant leap forward in the transportation sector. Exciting times lie ahead as Kenya prepares to embrace the age of flying taxis and autonomous air travel.
Read the original article on Kenyans.co.ke
