Chinese electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) developer Ehang (NASDAQ: EH) has successfully conducted its first passenger-carrying flight in the United Arab Emirates. The event took place in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone for Ehang as it introduces its EH216-S unmanned aerial vehicle (UAM) to the Middle East market.
The EH216-S, which has received a Production Certificate in China, boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 650 kilograms and is powered by battery for flight. It can reach a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometers per hour with a maximum endurance of 25 minutes. Ehang has also secured the Type Certificate, Airworthiness Certificate, and Production Certificate for the EH216-S in China, making it the first eVTOL maker to achieve this feat.
Ehang’s EH216 series of eVTOLs, which includes the EH216-F for high-rise firefighting and the EH216-L for aerial logistics, demonstrated a diverse range of applications during their debut flights in the UAE. These flights, conducted at the Emirates Falcons Aviation Club in Al Ali, Abu Dhabi, showcased the UAM’s autonomous flight capabilities in various scenarios, highlighting its potential in addressing urban transportation challenges such as emissions and congestion.
Ehang founder, chairman, and CEO Hu Huazhi expressed optimism about the progress made, stating, “After securing the approval for passenger-carrying demo flights and conducting the debut flight, we will actively foster collaboration and communication between the GCAA and the Civil Aviation Administration of China to expedite the progress towards commercial flights of our pilotless aircraft in the UAE.”
See also: Ehang Establishes First UAM Center in Japan, Demonstrates EH216-S eVTOL
Ehang’s strategic partnerships in the UAE, including collaborations with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Wings Logistics Hub, demonstrate the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in the region. Ehang is also working on the design and construction of an eVTOL vertical take-off and landing airport in partnership with UAE government agencies to facilitate the launch of commercial UAM routes.
With plans to establish a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, Ehang aims to further enhance its business activities in the UAE, encompassing manufacturing, flight operations, research and development, training, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities. These initiatives underscore Ehang’s dedication to advancing the field of eVTOL technology and transforming the future of urban transportation.
