A New Era in Aviation: Saudi Aviation Club and Switchblade Flying Car
In a groundbreaking development for aviation and transportation in Saudi Arabia, Samson Sky, the renowned manufacturer of the innovative Switchblade flying car, has partnered with the Saudi Aviation Club (SAC) to promote and expand the use of flying cars in line with the ambitious goals of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
This significant collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Sand Fun 2025 Airshow in Riyadh, where Samson Sky's CEO Sam Bousfield signed the agreement with His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Alfahaid, President of the Saudi Aviation Club. The signing ceremony was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman, further highlighting the importance of this partnership in shaping the future of transportation in the Kingdom.
The Vision 2030 Framework
Saudi Vision 2030 aims to establish the country as a global hub for tourism and international trade by significantly enhancing its connectivity. The partnership with Samson Sky is a strategic step toward achieving this vision, as the Switchblade flying car promises to transform regional tourism and business travel across a vast nation with many cities spread far apart.
Sam Bousfield emphasized, "The Switchblade brings a new way to connect scattered cities, fostering economic growth and development while making travel more efficient and accessible for residents of the Kingdom. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to contribute to Saudi Vision 2030."
Features of the Switchblade
The Switchblade is not just a flying car; it's a high-performance hybrid-electric vehicle that can be converted from driving to flying mode within three minutes, all at the push of a button. It fits comfortably in a standard garage and can be driven to the nearest airport, where it seamlessly transitions to flight.
Notable specifications include:
- - Acceleration: 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in just 5 seconds
- - Top Speed: 125 mph (201 km/h)
- - Cruise Speed: Estimated at 160 mph (257 km/h)
- - Range: Up to 500 miles (805 km) on a single tank at 13,000 feet
- - Safety: All flying surfaces remain enclosed during driving mode, ensuring safety and insurance compliance.
Training and Infrastructure Development
As part of the MOU, Samson Sky will not only provide training for Switchblade mechanics and pilots but will also assist in obtaining the necessary approvals for the flying car's operation within Saudi Arabia. This includes facilitating access to SAC airport facilities for demonstration and sales, further integrating the Switchblade into the country’s transportation infrastructure.
The Saudi Aviation Club is dedicated to promoting general and sports aviation activities and represents Saudi Arabia in international aviation organizations. Its collaboration with Samson Sky serves to deepen its mission of cultivating a passion for flying and fostering technological advancements in the aviation sector.
Future Plans and Economic Impact
With over 2,700 reservations from more than 50 countries, the demand for the Switchblade is evident, representing a potential revenue exceeding $500 million. Samson Sky is also exploring opportunities for a commercial model, which would provide an express courier service, funded by accredited investors globally.
Pricing for the Switchblade is anticipated to be around $200,000, making it a competitive option for those seeking innovative transportation solutions.
Conclusion
The partnership between the Saudi Aviation Club and Samson Sky marks a pivotal advancement in the aviation sector, harnessing cutting-edge technology to pave the way for a future where flying cars become a staple in Saudi Arabia's transportation ecosystem. As this initiative takes flight, it promises not only to reshape travel within the Kingdom but also to enhance its global standing in tourism and trade.
For more information on the Switchblade and to follow its production journey, visit
SamsonSky.com.