The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority has announced a framework to regulate the use of electric and conventional helicopters in the Emirates.

The rollout of the regulations will allow both electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and conventional helicopters to operate interchangeably on the same infrastructure, reported state news agency Wam.

The announcement came as two test flights took place in the UAE in recent days. On Monday, California-based Joby Aviation, in partnership with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, carried out an electric air taxi test flight ahead of a planned launch of commercial operations next year. Archer Aviation completed the first test flight in Abu Dhabi of its air taxi on Wednesday.

“The UAE has always been at the forefront of excellence in aviation. This pioneering regulatory framework does not merely enable new technology; it redefines how aviation evolves,” said Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of the GCAA.

“It reflects our commitment to innovation in developing a supportive ecosystem for the growth of this vital sector and a future where advanced air mobility is seamlessly integrated into our national infrastructure.”

The newly announced regulations will allow for dual-use between conventional helicopter pads and electric vertical take-off and landing pads.

The framework will enable the UAE to adopt a flexible regulatory environment that keeps pace with emerging technologies without compromising safety standards, said Aqeel Al Zarouni, assistant director general for aviation safety affairs at the GCAA.