eVTOL stands for Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft. These aircraft utilize electric power to hover, take off, and land vertically, eliminating the need for runways and offering quieter and cleaner transportation options. eVTOLs are often referred to as air taxis or flying taxis.
Key Takeaways
1. Massive long-term infrastructure demand
The study forecasts that *India could need roughly 10,000–15,000 vertiports/vertipads by 2045. This infrastructure would support a growing network of eVTOL-type air taxi services across cities nationwide.
2. Delhi as a flagship market
Delhi is highlighted as a particularly strong early market, with strong demand fundamentals and clear infrastructure needs to support Urban Air Mobility (UAM).
By 2045, Delhi alone might see around 40 million passenger air taxi trips per year.
3. India’s broader market potential
Nationwide, the study projects 200–250 million air taxi passenger trips annually by 2045, indicating very strong future demand across Indian metropolitan regions.
Annual passenger revenue in India could reach approximately US$2.0–2.5 billion by 2045 (with ~US$400 million expected in Delhi).
Market Drivers
The report identifies several factors driving the need for vertiport infrastructure in India:
Long commute distances and poor peak-hour traffic speeds making air taxis a time-saving alternative.
Heavy reliance on road transport, meaning air taxis could attract significant ridership.
Growing affluence among urban residents, expanding the potential customer base for air taxi services.
Relatively lower operating costs for air taxi operations compared with some major global cities.
Infrastructure Implications
The sheer scale of projected demand suggests infrastructure must be network-scale, not limited to a few central hubs. Instead, numerous distributed vertipads are likely needed across cities.
Modular systems and scalable designs are important to enable rapid deployment—from initial rollout to thousands of pads as air taxi fleets grow (e.g., systems like Aeroberm™ referenced in reports about the study).
What This Means for India
India is positioned as one of the world’s most important future markets for UAM infrastructure, given its population density, urban congestion, and potential air taxi demand by 2045.
The findings suggest both regulatory preparedness and infrastructure investment will be key for realizing this potential, offering big opportunities for developers, city planners, and UAM ecosystem stakeholders.
Jan. 27, 2026
Norway has become a global "living lab" for the future of aviation, and the partnership between Bristow Group and electric aircraft manufacturers is at the center of this transformation.
Jan. 20, 2026
That sounds like an absolute dream for any tech and aviation enthusiast. Pairing a Tesla Cybertruck with a Jetson ONE is essentially the ultimate "future-mobility" flex. The Cybertruck provides the off-road capability and power (to charge your batteries) to reach remote spots where you can truly let the Jetson fly.
Jan. 12, 2026
How AI Is Powering the eVTOL Revolution
AI is becoming a core enabler of eVTOL, powering autonomous flight control, navigation, collision avoidance, and real-time decision-making. Today, most eVTOL programs use human-pilot + AI assistance, while some regions (notably China and the Middle East) are already demonstrating fully autonomous flights.
AI also improves safety and economics through predictive maintenance, optimized flight paths, and intelligent air traffic management for dense urban skies. In the near term, AI will scale eVTOL operations efficiently, while full pilotless air taxis will depend on regulatory approval and public trust.
Jan. 6, 2025
Why Hybrid eVTOLs Are Harder for the FAA to Certify
Hybrid eVTOLs are more difficult for the FAA to certify than battery-only designs because they combine two complete power systems—a fuel-based engine/generator and a high-voltage electric system—into one aircraft. This greatly increases system complexity, failure modes, fire and thermal risks, and certification testing requirements.
The FAA must evaluate safe operation across multiple power-transition scenarios, certify both fuel and electric systems together, and create special certification conditions due to limited precedent. Battery-only eVTOLs are simpler, have fewer components, avoid fuel regulations, and fit more easily into existing electric aircraft guidance.
As a result, hybrid eVTOLs typically face longer FAA certification timelines, often pushing commercial approval into the early 2030s.
Dec 30, 2025
Wisk Aero has completed the first flight of its full-scale, autonomous Generation 6 eVTOL air taxi, successfully demonstrating hover and flight-stability maneuvers at its Hollister, California test facility—marking a major milestone for the Boeing-backed company’s four-passenger aircraft program.
Dec 17, 2025
Vertical Aerospace Introduces Valo, a New eVTOL Designed to Transform Urban Air Mobility
Dec 13, 2025
Saudi Arabia and Archer Partner to Fast-Track eVTOL Air Taxi Launch Under New GACA Regulatory Pathway
Saudi Arabia’s aviation regulator GACA has signed an agreement with Archer to build a U.S.-modeled regulatory framework for eVTOL deployment, enabling proof-of-concept flights and early air-taxi operations across Riyadh, Jeddah, and major Vision 2030 projects—including Red Sea Global—following Archer’s recent partnership with The Helicopter Company.
Dec 10, 2025
FAA Launches AAM Pilot Program to Gather Real-World eVTOL Flight Data
The FAA has launched a new Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Integration Pilot Program to collect real-world operational data from eVTOL aircraft. The agency is inviting state and local governments to partner with U.S. eVTOL developers to run pilot operations such as air taxi flights, cargo missions, medical transport, and emergency response.
The data gathered—covering safety, performance, airspace integration, infrastructure needs, and community impact—will directly inform future FAA regulations for eVTOL certification, pilot requirements, and vertiport standards. At least five projects will be selected, with operations expected to begin as early as 2026.
Dec 5, 2025
Honda Sets March 2026 for First Flight of Its Full-Scale Hybrid eVTOL Aircraft
Honda announced that its full-scale hybrid eVTOL prototype will be completed by the end of 2025 and is scheduled to make its first flight in March 2026, marking a major step in the company’s advanced air mobility program. The aircraft uses a hybrid-electric propulsion system combining batteries with a compact turbogenerator, enabling an extended range of around 400 km, far beyond typical all-electric eVTOLs. This design positions Honda to pursue regional air mobility, opening use cases such as intercity travel, medical transport, and longer-distance shuttle operations beyond urban air-taxi markets.
Dec 1, 2025
Joby Strengthens Saudi Presence with Red Sea Global & THC Partnerships Ahead of 2026 Air Taxi Trials
- Partnership signed with Red Sea Global and The Helicopter Company plans for Joby to complete pre-commercial evaluation flights in the Kingdom next year, in preparation for the future deployment of air taxis in Saudi Arabia
- Builds on recent agreement with GACA to collaborate on the Kingdom’s air taxi regulatory framework
- Marks Joby’s continued expansion across the Middle East and Central Asia, following new partnerships in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE and Kazakhstan
Nov 27, 2025
EHang Achieves First Human-Carrying Pilotless eVTOL Flight in Thailand’s Urban AAM Sandbox
EHang has completed Thailand’s first human-carrying, pilotless eVTOL flight within the country’s Urban AAM Sandbox, marking a major step in advancing autonomous air mobility. The demonstration carried the Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), underscoring regulatory confidence in EHang’s autonomous flight technology. This milestone positions Thailand as a regional leader in next-generation air mobility and strengthens EHang’s global momentum toward commercial deployment.
Nov 26, 2025
Archer Buys Hawthorne Airport for $126M to Anchor LA Flying Taxi Network and AI Aviation Hub
Archer Aviation has acquired control of Los Angeles’ Hawthorne Airport for $126 million in cash, establishing it as the operational hub for its upcoming eVTOL flying taxi network and a testing ground for its AI-powered aviation technologies. Backed by United Airlines Ventures and bolstered by $650 million in new equity funding, Archer is rapidly expanding its global footprint with new partnerships, milestone Midnight aircraft flights, and a growing patent portfolio exceeding 1,000 assets.
Nov 7, 2025
Archer’s Midnight Chosen to Help Shape Tokyo’s eVTOL Future
- Japan Airlines-led consortium, which features Archer’s Midnight as the intended aircraft, is selected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to participate in the first phase of the “eVTOL Implementation Project” in Tokyo.
- As part of the project, Archer will work alongside Japan Airlines, Sumitomo Corporation and their JV operating company, Soracle, to build an operating ecosystem in Tokyo, which represents a critical step towards ramping commercial operations in the coming years.
Nov 5, 2025
Integrating this level of advanced compute can transform operational safety and mission capability, enabling real-time, on-board capabilities such as:
- Autonomous Mission Management: Enables the aircraft to determine, request and follow optimal flight paths, adapt to changes in weather, air traffic control instructions, or unexpected events, with intuitive human-machine teaming to ensure mission success.
- Radar and Perception Processing: Onboard compute processes high-rate data from Radar, LiDAR and Vision sensors to achieve rich environmental awareness, precise object perception and localization to safely navigate the airspace in all conditions.
- Sensor Fusion: Integrated high-performance processing combines data from a diverse range of sensors to deliver reliable and accurate aircraft state estimation and situational awareness in the most challenging environments.
It also establishes a foundation to develop features that enhance operational insight, reliability and performance:
- Predictive System Health Monitoring: The aircraft will be capable of refining models of its own function and reliability, predicting when system components might need attention and alerting crew members before it becomes a problem.
- “Digital Twin” Modeling: With powerful and reliable compute capabilities, an aircraft can carry a “digital twin” model of itself, and the world, that gathers data from every flight to refine its fidelity. This information can then be integrated into mission control systems to optimize performance and efficiency.
Oct 29, 2025
- Includes the potential for Korean Air to purchase up to 100 Midnight aircraft, to be deployed across multiple use cases
- Korean Air and Archer will work towards jointly commercializing Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft to address multiple national priorities across Korea
- In 2022, Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport announced eVTOL and urban air mobility adoption as a priority for the Korean government
Oct 20, 2025
- EHang officially introduced the VT35, a next-generation two-seat autonomous eVTOL, at an event in Hefei.
- The VT35 is designed to fly significantly farther than EHang’s earlier EH216-S model — reports say it can travel up to ~200 km (≈ 125 miles) on a single charge.
- The VT35 is currently in the process of airworthiness certification and internal testing.
Oct 14, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA), Joby and Skyports Partner to Launch Air Taxi Service in Ras Al Khaimah by 2027
- Service expected to start with inter-emirate corridor connecting Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah
- Extends UAE's air mobility vision, establishing Ras Al Khaimah as a key hub for tourism and innovation
Sep 30, 2025
Design approval in India for 5-seat eVTOL
Punjab-based firm Nalwa Aero received Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the DGCA for eVTOL aircraft with five or more seats. The aircraft is intended to fly at ~350 km/h with a range of ~300 km — for both intra-city and inter-city travel.
Sep 26, 2025
Archer’s Midnight aircraft completed its highest altitude flight to date, reaching 7,000 feet at its Salinas, California test facility.
- Altitude flexibility: eVTOLs are typically designed to operate between ~1,500–4,000 feet altitude in urban environments. Reaching 7,000 feet gives more room for navigating airspace, especially over hilly or high-elevation cities, and dealing with air traffic constraints.
- Performance validation: Distance, speed, and altitude gains are all key for demonstrating that Midnight can meet its design goals, which include range, speed, and safety.
- Regulatory & commercial readiness: These tests help build the data needed for FAA (US) and other regulators to certify the aircraft. Also demonstrates progress toward using the eVTOL for commercial operations (e.g. in the UAE).
Sep 22, 2025
Wisk, Fullerton Join Forces on Air Taxi Future
Wisk Aero has signed an MOU with the City of Fullerton to explore infrastructure, policy, and operational frameworks for electric air taxis at Fullerton Municipal Airport. The collaboration will focus on planning vertiports, updating municipal codes, addressing community noise and safety standards, and securing regional and federal funding. This partnership positions Fullerton as a key hub in Southern California’s push toward advanced air mobility, paving the way for the eventual launch of autonomous passenger flights in the region.
Sep 19, 2025
What is the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP)
- The eIPP is a three-year federal initiative (DOT + FAA), created under a June 2025 Executive Order (“Unleashing American Drone Dominance”).
- It aims to allow mature eVTOL aircraft to begin pre-certification trial operations in selected U.S. markets, before full FAA type certification. It seeks to generate operational, regulatory, safety, noise, community, and scaling data.
- At least five pilot project partnerships (public-private, involving state/local/tribal governments + industry) are expected to be selected.
- Use-cases may include passenger transport, cargo, medical/emergency response, etc.
Sep 16, 2025
Joby to Bring Blade’s Air Mobility Services to the Uber App
They plan to bring Blade’s air mobility services to the Uber app as soon as next year, following Joby’s recent acquisition of Blade’s passenger business.
Sep 11, 2025
The Jetson ONE unit was delivered to a facility in Carlsbad, California, where Jetson’s Founder and CTO Tomasz Patan and CEO Stephan D’haene assisted in person with the unboxing and pre-flight checks.
Sep 7, 2025
Joby Completes Landmark U.S. Defense Exercise with Autonomous Flight Technology
- Logged 7,000+ miles of autonomous operations, more than 40 flight hours
- Demonstrated dual-use potential of Joby’s technology, advancing both defense readiness and commercial market leadership
- Generated mission-critical data to inform next-generation U.S. defense
Sep 3, 2025
Archer Completes 55 Mile Flight—Longest Yet For Piloted Midnight Aircraft
The flight took place at Archer’s flight test facility in Salinas, California, in front of United Airlines’ Chief Financial Officer, Mike Leskinen, who led United Airlines’ early investment in Archer.
Test flights in the preceding week reached speeds of nearly 150 mph over a variety of patterns. This latest achievement marks another major milestone in Archer’s envelope expansion program as the company advances toward FAA certification in the U.S. and near-term commercialization in the UAE.
The flight was conducted as a conventional takeoff and landing mission. Four of Archer’s test pilots are now regularly conducting test flights in Midnight, underscoring the program’s continued progress and maturity.
Aug 19, 2025
New safety insights to guide future eVTOL regulation published
To drive safety in our future airspace, WMG at University of Warwick has been working with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on new research to assess how future electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft can be safely integrated into UK skies.
The research proactively identifies risks that may arise from the future integration of eVTOLs into an already complex airspace system. The study identifies over 50 high-priority areas, many of which apply to both eVTOL and helicopter operations. Some of the key outputs of the report include:
- Airspace integration challenges: Air Navigation Service Providers should implement mechanisms to detect and alert controllers/service providers to deviations in aircraft performance (e.g., altitude, speed, trajectory) from expected parameters.
- Vertiport operational standards: The criticality of energy management requires Ground Services to use advanced real-time sensors to ensure continuous feedback on landing conditions.
- Automation and simulation oversight: There are currently no mandated protocols for using automation and simulation tools to detect performance deviations or predict flight path conflicts.
Aug 13, 2025
Demonstration flights conducted by Bristow Norway AS and BETA Technologies through the Test Arena established by Avinor and CAA Norway are designed to evaluate use cases and routes for zero- and low-emission aviation in the Nordic region.
Delivery of BETA's aircraft to the Test Arena concludes a 6976 km journey across seven countries in the EU; marks company's first operations with a BETA-trained customer pilot
Aug 8, 2025
Joby's First Conforming Aircraft Heads to Final Assembly in Preparation for TIA Flight Testing
- Marks critical milestone on path to commercialization
- Testing on major components, aerostructures, and systems complete
- Remains on track to start flying first TIA aircraft in 2025
Aug 6, 2025
Skyfly Technologies Makes Aviation History with First Airfield-to-Airfield eVTOL Flight in Europe
- The Axe VCA (Vertically-Capable Aircraft) has conducted its first flights between airfields, flying from Turweston to Bicester in the UK.
- It marks the first time in Europe that an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft has flown between two airfields.
- The Axe is now being readied for its trip to the United States, where it will appear at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh.
July 29, 2025
Would a parachute improve the safety of our transforming eVTOL aircraft?
July 24, 2025
This first-of-its-kind agreement establishes Nalwa Aero as one of Urban-Air Port’s preferred VTOL Partners in India, while Urban-Air Port becomes Nalwa Aero’s preferred Infrastructure Partner. Together, the companies will accelerate the development of India’s AAM ecosystem, unlocking in-line-of-sight business opportunities by combining Nalwa Aero’s innovative NALWA 5X eVTOL aircraft with Urban-Air Port’s cutting-edge vertiport infrastructure.
July 23, 2025
July 17, 2025
Joby Expands Manufacturing Capacity in California and Ohio, Adds New Aircraft to Its Fleet
- Will double production capacity in Marina, CA manufacturing site across 435,500 square feet of total space
- Ramping up newly renovated facility in Dayton, Ohio to manufacture and test aircraft components
- Leverages Toyota’s manufacturing playbook to drive scale, quality and efficiency
- Adds new aircraft to Joby’s fleet, showcasing acceleration of production
July 15, 2025
A year since Urban-Air Port agreed a significant uplift in valuation with its investor partners including Hyundai Motor Group & Supernal the lead investor in UAP's Series A at a valuation of $43mil - the companies reassert their strategic alliance.
July 8, 2025
Archer Begins Test Flights in Abu Dhabi
- Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft flew at Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi.
- Archer’s flight test operations are focused on evaluating the aircraft's vertical take off and landing (VTOL) performance in UAE-specific conditions, including high temperature, humidity and dust exposure in advance of commercial deployment.
- Senior leadership from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi Aviation and Abu Dhabi Airports attended the flight test, along with representatives from Archer’s regional partners.
July 4, 2025
Joby Cements Global Lead in Air Taxi Industry with Dubai Flights and Beginning of Commercial Market Readiness Work
Delivers first aircraft to the UAE and successfully begins commercial market readiness work with multiple piloted, vertical-takeoff-and-landing wingborne flights
Advancing toward air taxi operations in partnership with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority – Dubai, witnessed first flights and ground operations, underscoring Dubai's commitment to advanced air mobility
In partnership with Skyports Infrastructure, construction underway on Joby’s first commercial vertiport site at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and on track for Q1’26 completion
June 30, 2025
EH216-S successfully completed its first pilotless human-carrying flights in Indonesia.
June 26, 2025
Archer Joins Transportation Secretary and Acting FAA Administrator To Announce Five-Country Alliance to Streamline Certification Process For eVTOL Aircraft Globally
- The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) held a press conference today to announce a five-country alliance to streamline the certification and safe deployment of eVTOL aircraft.
- Led by the United States, this alliance also includes the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
- Archer and industry peers were invited to join the DOT and FAA at the Paris Air Show today to make this announcement.
June 17, 2025
Archer raised an additional $850M following the White House’s announcement last week of an Executive Order by President Trump to implement an eVTOL Integration Pilot Program in the United States. This program is focused on accelerating the deployment of eVTOL aircraft in the U.S.
June 13, 2025
Horizon Aircraft Partners with MT-Propeller, a global leader in advanced propeller technology, to supply propellers for Horizon’s hybrid turbine engine.
June 13, 2025
Vertical Aerospace Makes Aviation History with Piloted eVTOL Flight in Open Airspace
- First-ever piloted wingborne flight of a winged eVTOL in European open airspace
- Landmark flight follows approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, an important step on its path toward certification and commercial operation
- 30,000 in-flight parameters and data points measured, with the aircraft flying as expected
- On track to complete piloted transition flight in 2H 2025
May 27, 2025
Wisk and NASA Sign Five-Year Research Partnership to Advance Autonomous Flight
This work is instrumental in informing the development of:
- Airspace and route design optimized for highly automated Urban Air Mobility (UAM) operations
- Critical aircraft and ground-based safety system requirements necessary for autonomous flight in urban environments
- Air Traffic Control (ATC) communications protocols and procedures for seamless integration of UAM aircraft
May 20, 2025
XPENG AEROHT’s "Land Aircraft Carrier" Air Module Production Certificate Application Accepted by the Civil Aviation Administration of China’s South Central Regional Administration
May 9, 2025
- Featuring a hybrid-electric tilting jet propulsion system for improved efficiency and reduced noise.
- Resulting in a 500-mile range and cruise speed of 220mph.
- Over 80% quieter than helicopters making it suitable for use in residential areas.
- Safe stable flight is possible following failure of one jet, it also has a ballistic parachute.
- Compact size and light weight design, just 4.8m wide and 980kg with 3 passengers on board.
May 5, 2025
Apollo, a full service insurance broker, and Moonrock, a leading Drone Insurer, announce the launch of a new drone, eVTOL and Aviation innovation insurance facility.
The facility will provide liability coverage of up to $100m and property damage cover of up to $22.5m. Led by capacity from Apollo, follow-on capacity will be provided by AEGIS London, AXIS, Beazley, Helvetia, IQUW and Munich Re, while Moonrock will underwrite and distribute the product to brokers. The pioneering insurance facility is tailored to protect complex operations involving anything from single drones to larger fleets and to meet the demand in eVTOL and other areas of innovation in Aviation.
Apr 22, 2025
Archer Unveils Vision for New York Air Taxi Network, Including Routes Between Manhattan and Nearby Airports in Partnership with United Airlines
- Archer’s vision of an air taxi network in NYC would connect Manhattan with nearby airports using its Midnight aircraft, allowing customers to replace one-to-two-hour drives with flights that take 5-15 minutes, potentially saving hours versus sitting in traffic
- The network would be designed to include vertiports at existing aviation assets around the region, including both airports and NYC helipads
Apr 17, 2025
AutoFlight breaks ground on manufacturing facility in Wuhan
- New assembly base establishes Central China presence and accelerates eVTOL production
- Local partnership to create model demonstration zone for low-altitude economic development
Apr 14, 2025
Light eVTOL aircraft honored for innovation in the Future of Personal Flight and Drive Category
Apr 4, 2025
EHang’s EH216-S eVTOL Operators Obtain Air Operator Certificates
EHang announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, EHang General Aviation and its joint venture company in Hefei, Hefei HeYi Aviation have been granted the first batch of Air Operator Certificates for civil human-carrying pilotless aerial vehicles by the Civil Aviation Administration of China.
March 31, 2025
DFS Aviation Services in collaboration with Munich Airport International, Flughafen München , DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH and Airbus Helicopters is proud to be part of an innovative research initiative that’s taking on this critical task.
Funded by the Free State of Bavaria, this project is making strides in integrating eVTOL operations at a major international airport—marking the first time that such procedures are being created at an airport with parallel runway operations.
March 20, 2025
- Partnership will deliver revolutionary, emissions-free travel in the UK, including greater connectivity for Virgin Atlantic customers traveling to and from the airport
- Virgin Atlantic to support Joby’s preparations for operation in the UK
- Agreement builds on Virgin Atlantic’s track record of innovation and award-winning customer service
March 16, 2025
- Archer will initially leverage Palantir Foundry and AIP to accelerate the scaling of its aircraft manufacturing capabilities
- Archer and Palantir plan to work in parallel to develop software for the next-gen of critical aviation systems, including air traffic control, movement control and route planning
- Archer and Palantir will formalize the partnership later today during a signing ceremony between Palantir co-founder and CEO, Alex Karp, and Archer Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, at Palantir’s AIPCon
March 13, 2025
March 11, 2025
EHang Completed First Flight of EH216-S Pilotless eVTOL Aircraft in Mexico, Ushering in a New Era of Low-Altitude Mobility
March 10, 2025
The first formal agreement for demonstration flights was signed at Bergen Airport, Flesland, with BETA Technologies and Bristow Norway AS, a subsidiary of Bristow Group Inc.
March 6, 2025
Air Taxis Poised for Mass Adoption as Honeywell Survey Highlights Consumer Interest
March 4, 2025
SkyDrive and AeroGulf Services in Dubai have signed a Letter of Intent for the purchase of up to 50 eVTOL aircraft. The partnership will focus on exploring revolutionary air mobility business opportunities at Dubai’s iconic tourist destination, Palm Jumeirah.
Feb. 28, 2025
Archer unveils Midnight ‘Launch Edition’ commercialization program with Abu Dhabi Aviation
The goal of this program is to establish a pragmatic and repeatable commercialization playbook to deploy Midnight in dozens of early adopter markets in advance of type certification of the aircraft by the FAA.
Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) is Archer’s first Launch Edition customer, with plans to deploy an initial fleet of Midnight aircraft later this year. Archer personnel will now work together with Abu Dhabi Aviation to fly Midnight in the country in the coming months, targeting a passenger flight in Abu Dhabi later this year.
The two will also collaborate across pilot training, flight operations and community engagement.
In addition to the Launch Edition aircraft, Archer plans to provide ADA with a team of pilots, technicians and engineers to support the initial operational ramp, helping ensure a safe and efficient deployment.
Archer also plans to provide backend software infrastructure and front-end booking application to help power urban air mobility operations during the Launch Edition program.
The partnership between Archer and Abu Dhabi Aviation was formalized this week during a signing ceremony alongside the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, where Abu Dhabi Aviation signed a memorandum of understanding setting forth a framework to fund the deployment of the Midnight Launch Edition aircraft.
Feb. 27, 2025
Archer Receives FAA Certification To Launch Its Pilot Training Academy
- Archer received its Part 141 certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- This certificate signifies that a flight school is a formally recognized and regulated by the FAA for pilot training
- Archer can now train and qualify pilots as part of its newly launched pilot training academy with plans to build a pipeline of pilots in preparation for its planned commercial air taxi services
- Archer has now received three key operational certificates required from the FAA for it to be in a position to begin its air taxi operations when Midnight receives its Type Certification
Feb. 18, 2025
Horizon Aircraft Signs Letter of Intent with Discovery Air Chile Ltda., Expanding Global Presence of Cavorite X7 Hybrid eVTOLs
Feb. 10, 2025
India's DGCA developing regulatory framework for eVTOLs; ops to be managed strategically, tactically
Feb. 7, 2025
Eve Air Mobility and JetSetGo in New Delhi, India, have entered into an agreement to explore and advance the use of Vector, Eve’s Urban ATM (air traffic management) software solution in India.
Eve’s Urban ATM software solution is a key enabler to the efficient implementation and scalability of urban air mobility (UAM) by providing services for air navigation service providers, urban authorities, fleet operators, vertiport operators, and other UAM stakeholders. The solution includes UAM flight coordination, vertiport automation airside support, airspace flow management and conformance management.
Jan 21, 2025
Horizon Aircraft and Discovery Air Chile signed a letter of intent to lease five Cavorite X7 eVTOL aircraft
Jan 10, 2025
The acquisition advances Atlantic Aviation’s commitment to leading the industry in the creation of sustainable infrastructure to support advanced air mobility (AAM) operations by incorporating electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) infrastructure expertise into its recognized leadership in the FBO industry.
Vertiports are specified areas for eVTOL aircraft, which are powered by electricity, to takeoff, hover, and land in urban, suburban, and rural environments, improving connectivity between regions and offering a more sustainable transportation option with reduced emissions.
As a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlantic Aviation, Ferrovial Vertiports will immediately begin to operate under the name VertiPorts by Atlantic.
Jan 7, 2025
Archer Completes Construction of High-Volume Manufacturing Facility
Earlier this week Archer received the certificate of occupancy for its ~400,000 square foot aircraft manufacturing facility—referred to as ARC—in Covington, GA and held a commemorative ribbon cutting ceremony.
Tooling load-in is already underway ahead of the planned start of initial production beginning in early 2025, with the goal being to ramp production to a rate of two aircraft per month by the end of the year.
Stellantis and Archer are working to finalize an agreement pursuant to which Stellantis would work with Archer as its exclusive contract manufacturer to mass produce Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft at this facility, contributing capital, advanced manufacturing technology and expertise and experienced personnel with the goal of scaling this facility to 650 aircraft annually by 2030.
Dec. 20, 2024
Skyports Infrastructure and Bicester Motion, the 444-acre future mobility estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire, have celebrated the groundbreaking of the UK’s first vertiport testbed.
The vertiport, which is a key output of the Advanced Mobility Ecosystem Consortium, an Innovate UK Future Flight Challenge project, is under construction on a plot of 0.42 acres (0.17 hectares) which will include a compact 160 sq m passenger terminal.
Once complete, it will be a critical facility for testing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flight operations, ground infrastructure, and air traffic management and will play a significant role in enabling the next generation of electric, low noise aviation in the UK.
The vertiport is being constructed adjacent to Bicester Motion’s existing general aviation grass runways and is due to be completed in early 2025. The facility will launch with an inauguration event at which Advanced Mobility Ecosystem Consortium partners will test and demonstrate key outputs and findings from the project which will include demonstration flights by Vertical Aerospace.
Dec. 16, 2024
Joby service to be integrated into Jetex’s network of flagship private terminals; Joby charging stations to be installed at Jetex sites across Middle East; Partnership lays the groundwork for a global rollout of sustainable air taxi infrastructure
Dec. 11, 2024
Abu Dhabi and Archer Announce Agreement With Cross-Industry Stakeholders To Launch First Commercial Electric Air Taxi Flights
Dec. 6, 2024
Flight Academy will help to establish a pipeline of qualified pilots in advance of commercial operations; Joby was also accepted into the FAA Part 5 Voluntary Safety Management System (SMS) for Air Operations; Company completes two requirements to launch commercial operations
Dec. 4, 2024
By 2030, China could have 100,000 eVTOLs in households or as flying taxis, according to a report released today at the China Low Altitude Economic Alliance.
Nov. 27, 2024
A new joint venture backed by Skyports and Groupe ADP has been selected to operate the Downtown Manhattan Heliport for five years from 2025.
Nov. 22, 2024
EHang's EH216-S eVTOL Completes Debut Passenger Flights in Thailand, with Flights Tests and Commercial Operations Forthcoming
Nov. 8, 2024
Metro Aviation, air medical operator, has placed a deposit-backed order for up to 20 of BETA’s ALIA eVTOL.
Metro currently operates 170 aircraft for 42 programs across 27 states in the U.S. BETA’s ALIA VTOL will provide another platform to that portfolio – and with its high reliability, low cost, and vertical capabilities, it will offer increased mobility and access to rural and urban geographies with zero operational emissions.
Nov. 4, 2024
Joby and Toyota Accelerate Efforts to Realize Air Mobility
Toyota Motor Corporation and Joby Aviation came together at Toyota's Higashi-Fuji Technical Center (Shizuoka, Japan) to assert their collective passion and ambition for air mobility in a gathering that included executives from both companies, Akio Toyoda, the chairman of the Toyota Group, and Joby CEO and founder, JoeBen Bevirt, along with Joby's air taxi, an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL).
Nov. 2, 2024
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is ready for powered lift, which will be the first completely new category of civil aircraft since helicopters were introduced in the 1940s. Powered lift operations include air taxis, cargo delivery and a variety of operations within urban and rural areas. > >
- Makes changes to numerous existing regulations and establishes a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) with new requirements to facilitate instructor and pilot certification and training.
- Applies helicopter operating requirements to some phases of flight and adopts a performance-based approach to certain operating rules.
- Allows pilots to train in powered-lift with a single set of flight controls; legacy rules require two flight controls – one for the student and one for the instructor.
Supernal (Hyundai Motor Group) Partners With Clay Lacy Aviation and Blade Air Mobility to prepare FBO network for eVTOL operations
Oct. 22, 2024
City To Bengaluru Airport (BLR) In 5 Minutes
Oct. 21, 2024
Atlantic Aviation FBO is preparing to install charging stations for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis in the heart of New York City.
Oct. 18, 2024
Wisk Aero Partners with Airservices Australia to Incorporate Autonomous Air Taxi Network into National Airspace
Australia is an important market for Wisk’s testing and evaluation program and for future commercial service. In 2022, Wisk established an MoU with the Council of Mayors (SEQ), Australia’s largest regional local government advocacy organization, and most recently, Wisk expanded its partnership with Skyports Infrastructure to identify an Entry-into-Service (EIS) network for Wisk’s autonomous aircraft ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Wisk Australia Pty Ltd has also recently been established to lead the EIS of Wisk in Australia and will lead the engagement with Airservices under this MoU.
Oct. 15, 2024
Parkin and Skyports Infrastructure partner to shape the future of transport infrastructure in Dubai
The sustainable air transport solution aims to reduce road congestion and improve urban mobility by offering a faster and greener way to travel. Vertiports are a critical ground infrastructure, from where air taxis take-off and land, passengers are processed, and aircraft are recharged and maintained.
Oct. 5, 2024
Toyota To Invest $500 Million in Joby Aviation
Investment to be made in two equal tranches, with the first targeted to close later this year and the second in 2025; Funds will support certification and commercial production of Joby’s electric air taxi; Investment terms to include plans to establish a manufacturing alliance for the first phase of commercialization; Will bring total investment from Toyota Motor Corporation in Joby to $894 million
Oct. 2, 2024
Pivotal Hits Industry Milestone, Surpassing 1,000 Crewed eVTOL Flights. 30 Now Trained to Pilot BlackFly Pre-Production Aircraft
Sep. 25, 2024
Eve Air Mobility Names Ex-Rolls-Royce Exec Megha Bhatia As New Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
Sep. 17, 2024
EHang’s EH216-S eVTOL Obtains Experimental Flight Authorization Certificate from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency
Sep. 16, 2024
'Air taxis will soon be a reality in India': PM Modi
Sep. 15, 2024
Joby Applies to Become First Certified Electric Air Taxi Operator in UAE
Joby presents the company’s Letter of Intent to initiate Joby’s Air Operator Certificate application to Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.
Sep. 10, 2024
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India publishes national guidelines for vertiport design and operations. The government is looking to push for eVTOL aircraft as part of advanced air mobility solutions.
Sep. 9, 2024
Aug. 24, 2024
Skyports Infrastructure and Wagner Corporation, Australian real estate developer have partnered to explore vertiport development opportunities in the state of Queensland, Australia.
Aug. 19, 2024
Joby Applies for Aircraft Certification in Australia
Joby’s application to Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) for the validation of an FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) type certification builds on a bi-lateral agreement between the U.S. regulator and CASA, and it lays the groundwork for the introduction of quiet, emissions-free air taxis in Australia.
Aug. 6, 2024
Supernal, Hyundai Motor Group and Sigma Air Mobility, Luxaviation Group announced a joint effort to identify and develop targeted markets for future AAM infrastructure and investments, targeting key markets in South and Southeast Asia and potential opportunities in Southern Europe.
The collaboration is intended to leverage the companies' combined expertise to lead in the visioning, launch and scale-up of decarbonized and accessible air mobility networks in these regions, with Sigma operating Supernal electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and providing vertiport development and operations and related services.
- The firm order for 50 Lilium jets, with an option for 50 more, is the largest commitment in the eVTOL sector by an airline operator
- Saudia Group leads the aviation industry in the MENA region with the first agreement for the purchase of eVTOL jets
Beta completes Alia CTOL deployments with two U.S. DOD major commands
- Completed more than 24 flight hours and transported more than 2,200 pounds of cargo (up to 500 pounds at a time);
- Delivered various supplies, including meals ready to eat (MREs), utilized group ration boxes (UGR), critical medical equipment, camera systems and a tactics security system (TSS);
- Executed a simulated MEDEVAC mission between operational bases; and
- Filled a logistics gap created by a canceled C-130 airlift.
Victorian Government, Australia releases Advanced Air Mobility action plan
UrbanLink Air Mobility, an eVTOL operator based in South Florida, has entered into a partnership agreement with Skyway Technologies, a vertiport development and operations company based in California, for the joint placement of vertiports in key U.S. and Caribbean markets.
UrbanLink and Skyway plan to release more details on specific vertiport routes and locations in South Florida and Puerto Rico over the next six months.
SkyDrive and Kyushu Railway Company have signed an agreement to conduct a feasibility study for eVTOL deployment in the Kyushu region of Japan.
July 4, 2024
EHang and China Southern Airlines General Aviation Forge Strategic Partnership to Pioneer Pilotless eVTOL Collaborative Operations for Low-Altitude Economy
July 1, 2024
Wisk Aero, acquires Verocel, a software verification and validation (V&V) company. Verocel’s unique expertise in supporting the certification of high-integrity aerospace software and the qualification of V&V tools will play a key role in Wisk’s ongoing effort to certify its Generation 6 autonomous, electric air taxi.
June 25, 2024
SkyDrive Begins FAA Type Certification
The Japanese eVTOL aircraft manufacturer, announced that the company has submitted type certificate application of its three-seat eVTOL “SKYDRIVE” to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The application was accepted on April 29, 2024.
June 18, 2024
June 17, 2024
EH216-S Pilotless eVTOL Completes Debut Flight in Saudi Arabia
June 12, 2024
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) released revised certification requirements for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL)
June 10, 2024
Is the battery industry ready to propel a new era of aviation? The experts speak
June 8, 2024
EHang Secures RMB113 Million Order for 50 Units of EH216-S Pilotless eVTOLs from Xishan Tourism to Jointly Promote Low-Altitude Economy in North China
Xishan Tourism has placed a purchase order for 50 units of EHang’s EH216-S, and has paid the total contract price of RMB113 million to EHang. Meanwhile, Xishan Tourism has signed a purchase plan agreement for an additional 450 units of EH216-S over the next two years.
- The Korean government has set the goal of commercializing urban air mobility in the country by the mid-2020s, and in support of that objective the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) is hosting the K-UAM Grand Challenge, which is a public-private joint demonstration of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft intended to build public support.
- KakaoMobility’s consortium, which also includes LG UPlus Corp and GS E&C Corp. will participate in the Grand Challenge as one of only three consortiums to hold public demonstration flights in tandem with Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. This participation will include, among various initiatives, public demonstration flights of Archer’s aircraft and engagement with regulators to develop certification and operational standards.
As part of 50M Euro investment in Greece’s ecotourism infrastructure, Aria Hotels is first mover in constructing vertiports used by electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
A boutique hospitality group with approximately 70 properties across Greece known for curating authentic Greek experiences, in 2022, Aria Hotels is one of the first hospitality companies in the world, and the first in Greece, to directly lease the highly innovative eVTOL aircraft. Developed by BETA Technologies, Aria has leased 10 all-electric ALIA eVTOLs through an agreement with LCI, an aerospace subsidiary of Libra Group and a leading aircraft lessor.
- Agreement signed with Mukamalah, aviation subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, to introduce eVTOL aircraft to Saudi Arabia
- Agreement contemplates direct sale of aircraft to Mukamalah
- Mukamalah Aviation Company operates world’s largest fleet of corporate aircraft
- Agreement contemplates direct sale of aircraft to Mukamalah
- Mukamalah Aviation Company operates world’s largest fleet of corporate aircraft
Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra group unveils India's first electric flying taxi prototype, praises IIT Madras' innovation
May 11, 2024
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has officially accepted AutoFlight’s application for the Type Certificate (TC) of their Prosperity 5-seater electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Obtaining airworthiness certification is the initial threshold to ensure aircraft flight safety, and is also the prerequisite for aircraft to enter commercial operation. On March 22, 2024, the CarryAll unmanned aircraft system independently developed by AutoFlight obtained the Type Certificate (TC) issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), becoming the world’s first eVTOL aircraft above one ton to pass type certification.
May 1, 2024
New facility will more than double Joby’s manufacturing footprint in California; Expansion funded in part by $9.8 million California Competes grant; Second production prototype aircraft has rolled off production line
Apr 29, 2024
The Vertical Flight Society (VFS) announces that the number of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft concepts being tracked in its World eVTOL Aircraft Directory has now reached 1,000 concepts from more than 430 designers.
Apr 22, 2024
Eve has signed a letter of intent with AirX, Japan’s helicopter charter service, for up to 10 firm and up to 40 optional electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The order will support the continued development and scaling of innovative transportation operations in Japan.
Apr 17, 2024
European Commission adopts regulatory package, giving go-ahead for VTOL operations and air taxis
The European Commission has adopted a package of secondary legislation on drones and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capable aircraft, which puts the final rules in place for the launch of Innovative Air Mobility (IAM), including air taxi services.
The package is based on regulatory proposals from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), published in Opinion No 03/2023 in August 2023. The legislation introduces a comprehensive set of requirements for piloted electric air taxis, spanning the domains of Air Operations (Air OPS), Flight Crew Licensing (FCL), Standardised European Rules of the Air (SERA) and Air Traffic Management (ATM). It also establishes criteria and processes for the certification and maintenance of drones.
The package is the last legislative element required for the launch of air taxi services, complementing other existing legislation. Air taxis will additionally require certification from EASA before such services can become operational in Europe.
The package is based on regulatory proposals from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), published in Opinion No 03/2023 in August 2023. The legislation introduces a comprehensive set of requirements for piloted electric air taxis, spanning the domains of Air Operations (Air OPS), Flight Crew Licensing (FCL), Standardised European Rules of the Air (SERA) and Air Traffic Management (ATM). It also establishes criteria and processes for the certification and maintenance of drones.
The package is the last legislative element required for the launch of air taxi services, complementing other existing legislation. Air taxis will additionally require certification from EASA before such services can become operational in Europe.
Apr 11, 2024
Start of the test phase of The Edge Company’s BCMS (Bird Concentration Monitoring System) at UrbanV’s Test Vertiport UV. It could protect eVTOL aircraft from birds.
Apr 5, 2024
Joby will deliver two aircraft to MacDill Air Force Base (“AFB”) in 2025 as part of the Company’s AFWERX Agility Prime contract with the U.S. Air Force.
Aircraft will be used by the U.S. Air Force for test and training; Four Joby aircraft are now committed to US Air Force bases as part of the company’s $131M contract with the DoD
Joby delivered its first aircraft to Edwards Air Force Base in California in September 2023, with a second aircraft expected to be placed on the base this year. At Edwards, the Joby team is working closely with the 412th Test Wing on testing and experimentation that will inform future operational testing at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida.
Mar 19, 2024
Lilium and Atlantic Aviation announce they have signed an MOU to electrify existing airport infrastructure and support regional air mobility.
Partnership aims to establish a planned network to support operators of the Lilium Jet
Mar 13, 2024
Archer And Falcon Aviation To Jointly Develop Vertiport Network In Dubai And Abu Dhabi For The Launch Of Flying Car Operations In UAE As Soon As 2025
Mar 11, 2024
Signature Aviation, the world's largest network of Fixed Base Operations (FBOs), and BETA have partnered to install BETA-designed electric charger at several on-airport locations in the east coast.
The partners have already installed the first charger at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and BETA will be installing additional chargers at Frederick Municipal Airport (FDK) and the Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO). The companies are exploring additional sites to expand their partnership in the future.
Mar 7, 2024
Joby Aviation becomes the first developer of eVTOL aircraft to complete the third of five stages of FAA type certification process
During the third stage of the process, Joby submitted certification plans that cover all of the aircraft’s structural, mechanical, and electrical systems, as well as the Company’s intended certification approach to cybersecurity, human factors, and noise.
Joby is now fully focused on the fourth stage of the certification process, where the Company will complete tests and analysis for FAA credit covering every component and system on the Joby aircraft – as well as the entire aircraft itself.
Feb 21, 2024
Both companies join forces to combine Telefónica Tech's connectivity with EHang's technological capabilities in the Urban Air Mobility sector and deploy innovative aerial mobility solutions with drones in Europe and Latin America.
Feb 14, 2024
The UK Civil Aviation Authority has launched a consultation on design proposals for vertiports at existing aerodromes, paving the way for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft operations in the United Kingdom.
- New consultation launched by the UK Civil Aviation Authority on vertiport design at existing aerodromes.
- New policy will prepare the Advanced Air Mobility industry for the entry of electrically powered VTOL aircraft into the aviation industry in the UK.
- Proposals are based around existing policy developed by the regulator to ensure efficiency and safety of new infrastructure.
Jan 24, 2024
Archer Aviation, a developer of eVTOL aircraft, and Atlantic Aviation, a fixed-base operator (FBO) Collaborate on eVTOL Infrastructure Development
Jan 17, 2024
Joby Aviation has signed a definitive agreement with Clay Lacy Aviation to install Southern California’s first electric air taxi charger at John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, CA.
The installation of electrical infrastructure to support Joby’s Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS) comes as part of Clay Lacy’s planned $100 million redevelopment of its fixed-based operator (FBO) terminal at SNA, targeting completion in mid-2025.
The installation of electrical infrastructure to support Joby’s Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS) comes as part of Clay Lacy’s planned $100 million redevelopment of its fixed-based operator (FBO) terminal at SNA, targeting completion in mid-2025.
Jan 8, 2024
Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) NAMED AS DEVELOPMENT PARTNER FOR FLORIDA’S ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY SYSTEM
Dec 22, 2023
Overair, DFW International Airport to Collaborate on Exploring eVTOL Operations Throughout Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
The agreement will create a joint, cross-functional working group to explore the policies and infrastructure needed to implement an integrated, sustainable eVTOL program at DFW in the future.
The agreement will create a joint, cross-functional working group to explore the policies and infrastructure needed to implement an integrated, sustainable eVTOL program at DFW in the future.
Nov 16, 2023
Eve Air Mobility and Kookiejar, a Swedish-based vertiport developer, have signed a letter of intent (LOI) for Eve’s Urban ATM (Air Traffic Management) system to support vertiport operations in Dubai.
Nov 13, 2023
InterGlobe Enterprises And Archer Aviation Announce Plans To Launch All-Electric Air Taxi Service Across India In 2026
Nov 9, 2023
