Chinese flying-car developer Aridge expects to begin flight testing operations in the United Arab Emirates in early 2027, with initial commercial deliveries targeted for late 2027 or early 2028, Khaleej Times reported. The timeline depends on finalizing operational details of a regulatory sandbox in Ras Al Khaimah and logistical arrangements to import the aircraft.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Dubai Business Forum in Shenzhen, Aridge Chief Financial Officer Michael Du said the aircraft component of its Land Aircraft Carrier system, designated X3-F, has reached the Type Inspection Authorization stage and completed test flights under China's aviation authority. The company is now awaiting its final type certificate from Chinese regulators.
In September 2026, Aridge signed an agreement with the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah to create a regulatory sandbox under the oversight of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. The testing regime is slated to run for six to twelve months, providing local regulators and transport authorities time to establish operational standards and adapt aviation regulations to advanced air mobility.
Du noted that Ras Al Khaimah was selected as the initial testing ground because of its lower population density compared to Dubai. Aridge is also planning demonstration routes connecting emirates, including a route between Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. The modular system features a ground vehicle that transports and recharges a detachable two-person electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.
According to Du, Aridge had logged more than 300 early-stage orders by 2025. Although the company has not yet launched active commercial marketing in the UAE, management anticipates annual deliveries could eventually scale to several hundred units and potentially approach 1,000 units.
Sources
- Khaleej Times · 2026-10-20
