Pilotless flying taxi, an innovative initiative in the Dominican Republic to boost tourism

To modernize the tourism sector and reduce traffic congestion, they’ve launched the first “drone taxi” in the Dominican Republic—the brainchild of entrepreneur Karim Abu Naba.

He revealed that the initiative came after he had seen similar models in other countries, such as South Korea and the United States; however, none of these gave him more satisfaction than those in China, on the Asian continent.

“It’s an idea I’ve been planning for many years. I traveled around the world, saw the (flying drone) from the United States, didn’t like it, and the one from South Korea, and I didn’t like it until I went to China and saw the latest, most efficient technology,” he said. However, he explained that models like these are also available in Mexico and Brazil, but are not currently operational.

He also indicated that, despite currently having only one model, he plans to have 12 of the same model. This is intended to expand air transport to different parts of the country, according to Listín Diario.

The route aims to begin in key locations throughout the country, including Samaná, Bahía de las Águilas, Monte Cristi, Punta Cana, Santiago, Puerto Plata, Pedernales, and the National District. Once implemented, it will extend to all 32 provinces.

How does the drone work?

The unmanned aerial vehicle is designed to operate similarly to a commercial flight.

However, it has some peculiarities, such as the ability to accommodate two passengers inside. The pilot and copilot remain on the ground, operating the controls that manipulate the drone until it reaches its intended destination.

According to the businessman, an online app called “Fluir” has been developed to provide transportation services. The service will cost “affordable,” ranging from $100.

Eddy Matos, the flying taxi pilot, explained that the drones run on electricity, so they do not require liquefied petroleum gas.

They also have 16 propellers and a flight capacity of 30 minutes, during which time they can travel a distance of 30 kilometers.

“The pilot stays on the ground with two computers connected to satellites from China. We have two Dominicans trained to pilot this drone, who spent about 45 days in China training,” he explained.