Joby Aviation, an industry leader in upcoming eVTOL ride-sharing, has announced that it has officially received a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the FAA to fly the first aircraft ever built on its production line in Marina, CA.

Joby Aviation’s first production aircraft (left), with room for one pilot plus four passengers

On June 28th, 2023, Joby Aviation announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Special Airworthiness Certification to fly the Joby’s first aircraft ever created by the company’s mass production line. Joby originally received airworthiness approval for a pre-production prototype in December 2020, shortly after coming out of a stealth mode period for several years.

The new Special Airworthiness Certification issued by the FAA will now allow Joby to begin flight-testing this production version of the aircraft, which will match in assembly the version that will be used by fare-paying passengers.

Via this Certification, which is the first ever given by the FAA for a production eVTOL, Joby expects to become the first eVTOL maker to deliver an aircraft to a customer. The first customer for the Joby aircraft, which will receive the first production aircraft off the line (featured above), will be Agility Prime. Agility Prime is a technology incubator branch of the U.S Air Force, and helped Joby through its various flight testing phases. The first production aircraft will be delivered in Agility Prime in 2024. The aircraft will be operated  as part of the Company’s Agility Prime contract with the U.S. Air Force, worth up to $131 million.

One of Joby Aviation’s prototype aircraft in forward flight

This announcement also comes as Joby Aviation continues to move down the certification pipeline with the FAA to bring its eVTOL aircraft to commercialization. In February 2023, Joby Announced it had completed the second stage of this process, where it proved it could meet the safety standards set in the first stage.

In December of 2020, when the company first released footage of its prototype in flight, Joby also acquired Uber Elevate, Uber’s initiative to launch aerial ridesharing under their brand. At the same time, Joby also announced a funding round of over $590 million, with a large contribution from Toyota. Since then, the company has raised its value to over $1B, and launched on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: JOBY) in August of 2021.

Said JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby, “Today’s achievement is the culmination of years of investment in our processes and technology and it marks a major step on our journey to scaled production. We’re proud to have launched production in our home state of California. I’m incredibly grateful to the Joby team for their commitment to ensuring Joby remains the clear leader in this new sector and to Toyota for sharing their knowledge and experience with us over many years. Their support has been indispensable in helping us reach this point.”

Why it’s important: With this announcement, Joby Aviation’s aircraft has become the first ever production version eVTOL to receive airworthiness certification from the FAA. This marks a major milestone for the company, as this certification is an essential part of the journey to allowing the aircraft to carry fare-paying passengers.

Related:

• Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process (February 2023)
• Joby Receives Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate From the FAA (May 2022)
• Delta and Joby to Partner for Seamless Home-to-Airport Transportation (October 2022)
• FAA Proposes Airworthiness Criteria for Joby eVTOL (November 2022)

President of Jaunt Air Mobility’s Canada division Eric Côté has been added to the board of Aéro Montréal, an organization dedicated to positioning Quebec as a forerunner in the advanced aerial mobility industry.

The mission of Aéro Montréal is to facilitate and provide all expertise and support that may be needed as companies in Montréal begin to develop aerial mobility vehicles and services. Through collaborating with government, infrastructure, and private stakeholders, Aéro Montréal’s board will provide assistance with research & collaborative innovation, investment & financing services, design, prototyping, testing, certification, manufacturing, sales, infrastructure & operation, and more.

Jaunt Air Mobility, which was originally creating vehicles for an Uber Elevate partnership, is now bringing to market an advanced electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, which uniquely features a single lift rotor for auto-rotation and to further stabilize flight and reduce noise emissions. Learn more about the Jaunt Journey aircraft here.

Eric Côté has been president of Jaunt Canada for several years, and now looks forward to additionally serving on the Aéro board to make eVTOL a reality in Quebec. Said Côté: “It is an honour to join Aéro Montréal’s board and contribute to bringing AAM to Quebec and the world. At Jaunt, we have committed to designing, building, and certifying the Jaunt Journey in Canada due to the support of organizations like Aéro Montreal, the government, and access to a strong aviation community.”

Said Mélanie Lussier, President of Aéro Montréal: “We have assembled an incredible pool of expertise to realize our vision of building Quebec’s reputation as a centre of excellence in AAM (Advanced Aerial Mobility). Eric’s global business experience and the company’s mission to develop an eVTOL here make him a very valuable asset.”

In-air rendering of the Jaunt Journey aircraft

Notably, Jaunt has also made entries into to other international markets to commercialize its aircraft and services. So far, it has begun creating partnerships in Italy, Mexico, India, South Korea, South America, and more.

Why it’s important: By partnering with aerial mobility leaders in Quebec, Jaunt can not only offer valuable insight and research to help the city develop this new industry, but also has well-positioned their aircraft to be one of the first to begin operating in the area. By serving on the Aéro Montréal board, Côté can help Quebec to develop aerial mobility support and infrastructure, helping the city to prepare for eVTOL services by Jaunt as well as other new companies.

Source // Jaunt Air Mobility

Related:

• Redwings to Launch eVTOL Air-Taxi Services in Mexico City with Jaunt Air Mobility’s Journey Aircraft
• BLADE Air Mobility signs MoU with Jaunt for Operations in India
• Jaunt and MintAir partner to launch aerial mobility service in South Korea
• Jaunt Air Mobility and Varon Vehicles Partner for Aerial Mobility in Latin America
• L&T Technology Services is Awarded $100 million to Manufacture Jaunt Air Mobility Aircraft

Boeing has purchased all of Kitty Hawk’s stake in Wisk in a move to become a complete owner of the Wisk Aerial Mobility development company. This new full ownership structure allow Wisk to more fully utilize Boeing’s expertise in development, testing, and certification, though Wisk will continue to operate as a separate company.

Although Wisk was initially founded as a joint venture between Boeing and eVTOL developer Kitty Hawk, with Boeing having invested over $450 million into Wisk last year, the company until now had been financially and supported by Boeing, rather than a subsidiary. With this new development, Wisk has now become a wholly-owned subsidiary under Boeing, making the two companies a single shareholder.

Despite Boeing’s new ownership of Wisk, Wisk’s CEO Brian Yutko has maintained that the company will continue its current operations and development of the aircraft as its own entity. Because Boeing and Wisk have already been working closely together on this upcoming aircraft for several years, current operations for the company will likely continue as they are, although Wisk’s aircraft will now utlimately be a Boeing product.

By assuming ownership of Wisk, Boeing gains an opportunity to consolidate Wisk’s efforts and streamline the development process, while simultaneously making themselves a major industry leader in the eVTOL industry. This acquisition solidifies Boeing’s commitment to becoming a long-term leader in the aerial mobility space, and to bringing electric urban aircraft to market.

Late last year, Wisk unveiled the latest version of its aircraft; a four-passenger, autonomous, fully-electric tilt-rotor eVTOL with a range of 90 miles and the ability to charge in 15 minutes. With this aircraft, Wisk hopes to transform the way people move around and between large cities and connected regional destinations.

Why it’s important: This move by the two companies demonstrates Boeing’s belief in the significance and upcoming potential of these new aircraft. As eVTOL moves further down the certification pipeline towards operation, we can expect to see more major OEMs seeking to become a part of this new value offer. Additionally, this new relationship will allow Wisk to fully access the entirety of Boeing’s resources, offering the company a even faster and even more experienced route to certification and commercial operation. By leveraging Wisk’s expertise and technological advancements in eVTOL aircraft, Boeing is now also poised to accelerate the development of safe and reliable air taxi services.

Related:

• Wisk Aero and Japan Airlines partner for future AAM operations (May 2023)
• Wisk Unveils World’s First Self-Flying, Four-Seat, All-Electric, Vertical Takeoff and Landing Air Taxi (October 2022)
• Boeing and Wisk Release Urban Air Mobility Concept of Operations, Lay Path for UAM Ops by 2030
• Boeing Invests an additional $495 Million into Wisk (January 2022)

Through partnerships with business jet and private helicopter operators ASL Group and Air-Dynamic SA, Lilium has sold up to eleven more of its initial production aircraft to these major charter companies.

On May 24th, Lilium signed an agreement with business jet operator ASL Group for the delivery of six Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets. The agreement includes deposit payments to Lilium.

With these aircraft, ASL intends to create a sustainable, high-speed transportation network connecting major hubs across Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Western Germany for its customers.

Philippe Bodson, owner and CEO of ASL Group said: “Our company is constantly seeking new ways to operate responsibly and contribute to a healthy future, both socially and ecologically. The Lilium Jet is a great opportunity to provide better value to our customers in a sustainable way. With zero operating emissions, vertical take-off landing capability, and a spacious premium cabin, Lilium represents the best option on the market.” 

ASL Group is one of Europe’s leading business jet management and operator companies, with offices and bases in most Belgian and Dutch airports. It currently manages and operates more than 45 aircraft, and is currently seeking new and innovative ways to serve its customers.

Air-Dynamic meanwhile, operates in Switzerland and Italy, and has signed an agreement for delivery of up to five Lilium Pioneer jets, which also included deposit payments.

Notably, Air-Dynamic already operates both helicopters and business jets in these areas with over 20 years of experience, making it a prime candidate for adoption of Lilium’s eVTOL jet. By owning and operating these aircraft, Air Dynamic SA hopes to capitalize on the high-end European business travel and tourism market.

Said Raffaella Meledandri, CEO of Air-Dynamic SA, “This partnership represents an important step for Air-Dynamic SA and the entire aviation industry. We are excited to work with Lilium to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for the future of aviation. The first project’s goal is to connect Lugano directly with Milan City Center and in parallel to establish a good connection in Italy for the most touristic destinations such as Lake Como and Capri.”

Currently, Air-Dynamic SA specializes in networked routes across Switzerland, Italy, Côte d’Azur, and French Alps. 

Why it’s important: Regional private jet and helicopter combination operators represent a prime and immediately applicable market for eVTOL aircraft with mid-range capabilities, such as the Lilium eVTOL. By purchasing these aircraft, operators can not only save on operating and maintenance costs, but can also offer their customers a unique and highly luxurious experience with this new kind of aircraft. Ultimately, these business models will also give Lilium and other eVTOL makers a chance to proof their viability and commercial feasibility, and build business towards expansion into more market segments.

Source // Lilium

Related:

• Lilium announces capital raise for up to $250 million (May 2023)
• Lilium and eVolare sign deal for up to 20 aircraft (December 2022)
• Lilium and Helity to Develop High Speed Electric Air Mobility Network in Southern Spain (August 2022)
• AAP Aviation to develop electric regional air mobility in Norway with the Lilium Jet (July 2022)
• Lilium Completes Transition from Hover to Winged Flight (June 2022)

In a groundbreaking move towards the future of aerial mobility, the United States announced on May 16th the formation of a dedicated team tasked with establishing a comprehensive national strategy for the integration of flying air taxis into the transportation ecosystem. This initiative ultimately aims to transform the way many people commute, reducing congestion and providing faster and more efficient transportation options.

The new team, composed of experts from NASA, the Transportation Security Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Communications Commission, will collaborate closely with other government agencies, industry leaders, and stakeholders to define the regulatory framework, safety standards, infrastructure requirements, and operational guidelines for the deployment of eVTOL air taxis across the United States.

As reported in the press release issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, this initiative aligns with the government’s vision of fostering innovation and emerging technologies to address the challenges of urban transportation. By bringing together key players from both the public and private sectors, the team will work towards shaping a sustainable and accessible aerial mobility ecosystem.

Through this announcement, the DOT has stated that it’s first goal is to work with the public and stakeholders to understand “ the critical issues of importance in drafting a national AAM strategy”. In particular, they seek to develop a multi-step plan for the 2 year, 4-8 year, and 8 year plus marks to overcome barriers and assist in integrating this new mode of transportation into existing networks and cities.

This announcement follows several headlines from major airlines like American, United, and Delta, who have announced partnerships to begin operating these new kinds of urban eVTOL aircraft between city centers and airports. Additionally, the U.S government has also already made efforts in partnership with companies like Joby Aviation to help these new aircraft reach certification. Learn more about these partnerships on TransportUP.com.

Above: Image from Urban Airspace Mapping program chosen by NASA

Why it’s important: The successful integration of air taxis into existing transportation networks will require collaborative efforts from all stakeholders involved. By creating a cohesive national strategy, the U.S. can to streamline the regulatory processes, ensure public safety, and maximize the potential benefits of this emerging technology sooner rather than later.

Although programs have already been established in several departments of the U.S government like the FAA and NASA, this new team announces a overall coordinated team on the national level to begin implementing this technology. The formation of the signals the strength of the Biden Administration’s belief in the potential of this technology.

Related:

• Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process (February 2023)
• Archer and United to Fly eVTOL Route in Chicago Starting in 2025 (March 2023)
• American Airlines Solidifies Delivery Slots for Vertical Aerospace eVTOL Aircraft (July 2022)
• FAA Releases New Concept of Operations for Aerial Mobility (May 2023

Source // Reuters, Avfoil

Vmo Aircraft Leasing and H55, a leader in electric propulsion technology for aviation, have announced their collaboration to develop leasing solutions for clean aviation technologies. The partnership aims to provide leasing programs targeted at supporting the emerging market for financing electric aircraft, battery storage systems, and energy management systems.

Above: A Trainer Aircraft using H55 electric propulsion

H55, developer of electric propulsion systems such as batteries, controllers, and electric motors, has the goal of helping to make aviation a zero-emission industry by 2050. Vmo Aircraft leasing has this same vision, and the companies have now formed a collaboration to push towards this mission.

The two companies will create leasing programs for zero-emission aircraft and components that will help grow the market, demand, and developmental capacity for this propulsion type. Currently, Vmo offers liquidity and fleet solutions to airlines, lessors, and OEMs to increase operational and capital efficiency, while H55 has over 20 years of experience in creating sustainable propulsion solutions.

Vmo and H55’s first customers include OEMs, component manufacturers, and operators who are working electrification programs for both new and existing designs.

Above: Propulsion technologies created by H55

Said Robert Brown, Executive Chairman of Vmo Aircraft Leasing: “Technology and innovation are rapidly changing the aviation industry’s landscape, with emission-free aircraft designs on track to revolutionize airline fleets. With the giant addressable market, lessors will play a key role in financing electric and hybrid-electric aircraft.”

Said André Borschberg, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of H55, “As we are getting closer to commercialize clean aviation products, we believe it’s important to provide financing solutions for innovative products to facilitate the transition to sustainable aviation. A clear financial offering will make it possible to operators to fully appreciate the value they will derive from their investment. Leasing batteries with regular battery replacements, which will evolve in terms of improved performance, will move the cost of fuel to investing in technology.”

Why it’s Important: As zero-emission propulsion like H55’s gets closer to commercialization, there is a growing need for companies to provide financial solutions that will make these new technologies accessible to commercial operators. Making these systems more accessible through leasing programs will increase the volume of commercial operators who decide to begin implementing sustainable propulsion, giving it a faster track to becoming an integral part of regional air transportation.

Source // H55

Related:

• Eviation’s first all-electric airplane takes flight
• Alaska Airlines Partners with ZeroAvia to Develop the World’s Largest Zero-Emission Aircraft
• Pipistrel’s Velis Electro Set to Break 7 World Records During Flight
• Ampaire Receives Order for 6 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft from Conecta, Subsidary of Azul Airlines
• LaunchPoint Begins Shipments of Hybrid-Electric Motors

ZeroAvia has announced a major partnership with Alaska Airlines to develop a 76-passenger, hydrogen fuel-cell powered aircraft. The aircraft will be a Bombardier Q400, which was provided to ZeroAvia by Alaska Airlines. ZeroAvia will retrofit the Q400 with hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion to make it the first of its kind.

ZeroAvia, a major developer of hydrogen-electric powertrains for commercial aircraft, has already had great success in setting multiple hydrogen propulsion records in flight-tested aircraft.

Through this partnership, ZeroAvia was officially provided with a retired Alaska Airlines Bombardier Q400. Thanks to this donation, ZeroAvia will be able to convert the Dash-8 airframe into the largest hydrogen-powered aircraft ever to take flight.

At the partnership event, ZeroAvia also debuted its multi-megawatt modular electric motor system in a 1.8MW prototype, which featured a live demonstration with a propeller spin on ZeroAvia’s ground-test rig. When combined with ZeroAvia’s in-house developed higher temperature PEM fuel cells and advanced power electronics, this advanced electric motor technology becomes one of the crucial elements needed to make hydrogen fuel cell engines commercially viable for larger aircraft.

ZeroAvia’s 15-ton “HyperTruck” ground-test rig

Said Val Miftakhov, founder and CEO of ZeroAvia, “Demonstrating this size of aircraft in flight, powered entirely by novel propulsion, would have been unthinkable a few years ago. Launching this program puts us on track for a test flight next year, and accelerates our progress toward the future of zero-emission flight for Alaska Airlines and for the world at large.”

ZeroAvia plans is targeting a 300-mile range in 9–19 seat aircraft by 2025, and up to 700-mile range in 40–80 seat aircraft by 2027. The company has already demonstrated a successful test flight this January of a 19-seat aircraft with its prototype 600kW hydrogen-electric engine (ZA600), and has secured $10B in pre-orders from a number of major global airlines. The company is on track for commercial operations of retrofitted aircraft by 2025.

Alaska Airlines established a collaboration with ZeroAvia in 2021, and made a major investment in the company to facilitate the advancement of zero emissions propulsion technology for regional aircraft.

Why it’s important: As one of the largest airlines in the U.S. with a broad regional network, Alaska is has an exceptional opportunity to begin integrating zero-emissions propulsion technology into its regional fleet. Through this partnership, ZeroAvia will be given a chance to demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen-propulsion for larger aircraft, and Alaska Airlines will be able to set a precedent for zero-emissions regional transportation.

Source // Alaska Airlines, Electrek

Related:

• ZeroAvia Achieves ‘Record-Breaking’ Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance (March 2023)
• ZeroAvia Achieves First Flight of its Hydrogen-Electric Prototype (January 2023)
• Hydrogen-Powered ZeroAvia Aircraft Takes Flight (August 2019)

To further advance it’s electric aircraft charging solutions towards commercialization, Electro.aero has formed partnerships with SkyPortz, Altaport, Aerovy Mobility, and Greenstar Aviation. All of these partnerships seek to enhance Electro.aero’s offerings for turnkey electric aircraft charging solutions.

Featured rendering of one of Electro.aero’s RAP!D Aircraft Charger 200 in action

In order to perfect its electric aircraft charging solutions, Electro.aero has partnered with several different companies who will assist with software, leasing, and infrastructure development. With these partnerships, Electro.aero seeks to be able to “install world leading, high tech aircraft charging solutions with fully integrated smart software for electricity and traffic management, all at minimal upfront cost”, according to CEO and CoFounder Richard Charlton.

The four new partnerships announced by Electro.Aero are:

Skyportz – A highly-noted developer of vertiport infrastructure focused on securing access to optimal sites for vertiports. With a growling portfolio of dedicated sites across Australia, Skyportz is assisting property developers and owners in preparing for future eVTOL air taxi and cargo services.

Aerovy Mobility – A developer of electric charging software for advanced air mobility. When integrated with Electro.Aero chargers and battery energy storage systems, Aerovy software will enable dynamic pricing of aircraft charging services based on machine learning of supply and demand patterns. This will ensure that providers of charging services can guarantee that every aircraft can be charged as needed for high volumes of fllights with quick turn-around times, while minimizing electricity costs from the grid.

Altaport – An established provider of automation software for airports, heliports, vertiports, and droneports. When integrated with Electro.Aero charging infrastructure, Altaport software will manage charging slots by pre-booking and queue control of incoming aircraft needing to be charged. By providing real-time information about available chargers and pricing to aircraft operators, Altaport software will maximize the utilization of charging assets and minimize aircraft turnaround time.

Greenstar Aviation Partners – Developer of structured leasing solutions for electric aircraft and charging infrastructure. With an extensive background in the sustainable aviation sector and long-standing experience in global leasing of aviation assets, Greenstar’s financial solutions enable aviation customers to acquire the infrastructure they need to enable electric aviation.

Why it’s important: These new partnerships by Electro.aero will allow the company to provide fully-integrated, turnkey electric aircraft charging solutions to aircraft operators, vertiport developers, airports, manufacturers and more. This total system will give Electro.aero advantage over other providers, as it allows the company to offer a product that many vertiport developers will be able to purchase to have every charging system need provided.

As the eVTOL air mobility industry continues to grow and demand for electric aircraft charging solutions does as well, Electro.aero’s early start on providing comprehensive solution will be give it a significant competitive edge. Additionally, systems like Electro.aero’s will make it much easier for many potential veriport site owners to consider and launch vertiports in expanded areas, eventually meaning ventiports in more locations.

Related:

• Skyportz to Close Fundraising Round following $18M Federal Grant
• Altaport and Partners Prepare for Vertiport Automation
• Electro.Aero Releases New Line of Electric Aircraft Chargers
• ASTM Publishes International Standards for Vertiports

Source // Eelctro.aero Press release

LaunchPoint, a new company developing sustainable propulsion solutions for aviation, has recently begun shipments of its 12kW motor and controller solution for hybrid-electric aircraft.

The new motor system from LaunchPoint is designed for both VTOL and fixed-wing applications where low-weight, high-power solutions are required. The goal behind the product is to help companies developing new electric and hybrid aircraft to increase payload, range, and performance capabilities of their designs.

The 12kW motor system, released as a single product, is made of of two 6 kW electric motors stacked on single engine shaft. As part of the product package, LaunchPoint also provides the interface, documentation, and software needed to pair the alternator to a customer’s aircraft for a fully functioning hybrid generator system.

The first units were shipped to customers in Q4 2022 for high-power drone applications with large payload and extended flight requirements. 

Said Mitsuru Ishikawa, CEO of Ishikawa Energy Research Co, “LaunchPoint’s generator technology represents the best power-to-weight ratio among other competing technologies. Our projects are joint developments with top Japanese manufacturers and require the weight and power advantages that LaunchPoint offers for our drone programs.”

Image of one of LaunchPoint’s Propulsion Units

Based in Goleta, California, LaunchPoint has already conducted several successful seed funding rounds, and found several customers in the growing sustainable aviation industry.

Why it’s important: LaunchPoint represents yet another increasingly successful company in the growing hybrid-electric and fully-electric aviation propulsion industry. Moreover, the initial shipment of units to customers proves the commercial viability of LaunchPoint’s products, and gives this hybrid-propulsion solution a chance to prove itself in real-world mission applications.

Sources // LaunchPoint Press Release, PAC Biz times

Related:

• Magnix Announces Hydrogen Propulsion Development
• Ampaire Flies its First Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft
• Electra.Aero Completes Tests of Hybrid eSTOL Aircraft Engine

BLADE, provider of Air Mobility services worldwide, has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding agreement with Jaunt Air Mobility to bring Jaunt’s eVTOL aircraft to India for commercial operations.

Above: Rendering of Jaunt’s Journey aircraft with BLADE branding

BLADE currently operates major helicopter and private jet flights on-demand in urban locations throughout the world, providing the most accessible urban air mobility solution to date. Already, Blade’s prices near UberX prices in New York locations. With the introduction of EVAs (electric vertical aircraft), urban flight will become even more affordable.

With this new agreement, Blade India has agreed to work with Jaunt Air Mobility, a key developer of a unique eVTOL aircraft, to launch electric vertical air mobility networks in India starting in 2027. The MoU states Blade’s intention to purchase 150 Jaunt Journey aircraft, with an option to order another 100 aircraft to meet projected demand.

Currently, India represents the third-large aviation market in the world. Said Amit Dutta, Managing Director of BLADE India: “With its vast expanse and increasing congestion, India is one of the biggest markets in the world for AAM solutions. With BLADE’s first mover advantage in nurturing the Urban Air Mobility ecosystem in India and Jaunt’s technical expertise, this partnership is well poised to pioneer the transition to electric and revolutionize the transportation system.”

Simon Briceno, Chief Commercial Officer for Jaunt, commented: “We are thrilled to partner with an exceptional BLADE India team to pursue the launch of a new form of urban air travel in India and the subcontinent region. ur collaboration with BLADE India and our clear path towards aircraft certification means that the Indian public will soon be able to benefit from the development of a new safe, affordable, and accessible mode of transportation”

According to Jaunt, it’s aircraft design will offer the safety, flexibility, comfort, and efficiency benefits of a helicopter combined with those of a fixed wing airplane, at a fraction of the operational and maintenance costs, all with zero emissions and a very low noise profile.

Branching out to electric air mobility has been part of BLADE’s roadmap for several years now, with plans to augment and eventually possibly entirely replace helicopter routes with all-electric vertical aircraft. To this end, it has also made agreements with Beta Technologies, Boeing’s Wisk, Jet Linx, and EmbraerX’s EVE.

Through this partnership, Jaunt and also will work with Blade to help develop the necessary infrastructure and customer-facing experiences for electric air mobility in India. This will include the introduction of charging infrastructure, as well as use Blade’s existing short haul operational routes in India to integrate the Jaunt Journey.

Why it’s important:

With this agreement, BLADE adds yet another eVTOL maker to its ever-growing list of partners. By cornering the existing market for on-demand helicopter transportation, BLADE has made itself the forerunning company for eVTOL operations going forward, as many of its existing routes and operations can be replaced with eVTOL to save on operating and maintenance costs, and increase demand.

In addition, this agreement markes a major partnership for Jaunt Air Mobility, who has been working on the goal of signing commercial operator agreements with transportation providers globally. Jaunt has already also made partnerships in South Korea and Latin America. It’s partnership with Blade is one of its most significant to date, providing the company with clear and high-potential path to market in India.

Source // BLADE Air Mobility, Global NewsWire

Related:

• BETA and Blade complete first piloted eVTOL flight in New York area
• EmbraerX’s Eve to Provide BLADE with up to 60 eVTOL Aircraft
• Jaunt and MintAir partner to launch aerial mobility service in South Korea
• L&T Technology Services is Awarded $100 million to Manufacture Jaunt Air Mobility Aircraft

Global aerospace and defense industry leader Lockheed Martin has announced a major investment in Regent, developer of an electric ground-effect aircraft that will use distributed electric propulsion to travel overseas. The investment by Lockheed will help expedite the development of Regent’s seagliders for defense applications.

Regent’s seaglider seeks to combine the high speed of an airplane with the low operating cost of sea vessel. The aircraft will be fully-electric, and can to travel up to 180 miles in a single hour. The company’s vision is that the aircraft will be used to transport people and cargo between coastal destinations. It will be able to carry a total of 12 passengers, or up to 3500 lbs of payload.

Regent’s seagliders intend fulfill a need within the U.S. Department of Defense for high-speed, low-cost, runway-independent travel. Configurations are currently being planned for cargo and military personnel, but also for civilian and even luxury commercial travel.

With the new investment by Lockheed Martin, development of the Seaglider has received a major boost.

Said Billy Thalheimer, co-founder and CEO of Regent, “We see defense strategy evolving toward an island-hopping force featuring agile, affordable, and distributed craft. This investment is a strong signal that seagliders can fill this immediate need in the high-priority missions faced by our Department of Defense. Lockheed Martin’s expertise and resources will be invaluable as we work together to adapt seagliders for defense use cases that are critically important to national security”

Said Chris Moran, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Ventures, “This investment reflects our commitment to innovating technologies that have the potential to transform the way we adapt to our customer’s needs and support mission success.”

Above: Footage of a recent prototype flight of the seaglider

Regent has already received orders for over 400 aircraft to date, mainly from commercial air travel customers like Japan Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, Southern Airways Express, FRS (Germany), and Ocean Flyer (New Zealand). In total, this has brought Regent’s order book up to $7.9B USD.

Why it’s important: Although Regent has also received many customers in the commercial transportation sector, this investment from Lockheed Martin shows the aircraft’s high potential for Defense as an initial break-through industry. Investments from major global leaders like Lockheed-Martin lend major credibility to new kinds of electric propulsion aircraft, and provide a way for them to prove their immense value propositions. By making this investment, Lockheed has signaled its interest in the development and application of these kinds of aircraft, as well as helped Regent to speed its path to commercialization.

Source // Regent, Globe Newswire

Related:

• Seaglider manufacturer REGENT secures investment from Japan Airlines (February 2023)

Archer Aviation has announced a new upcoming route in partnership with United Airlines connecting downtown Chicago to O’Hare International Airport (ORD). The Chicago-based airline has made headlines over the past few years for its investment in eVTOL aerial mobility, most notably for its $1B USD order for 200 Archer eVTOL aircraft with deliveries starting as early as 2024.

The 10-minute trip will connect Vertiport Chicago with O’hare, a trip which today can take up to 45 minutes using alternative modes of transportation. This announcement is the second of its kind with the two companies already planning a route between Manhattan and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

Vertiport Chicago, North America’s largest vertical aircraft take off and landing facility, is located in the Illinois Medical District near the Chicago Loop. This site was selected as the takeoff and landing site for this airport-to-city center route because of its unparalleled convenience, access and service.

United and Archer’s goal for its UAM network is to provide residents and visitors in the Chicago Metropolitan Area with a safe, sustainable, low noise, and cost-competitive alternative to ground transportation beginning in 2025. Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, a center for business, innovation and investment, and home to United’s headquarters. This makes it a unique city for Archer and United to build out. The early launch routes will focus in on airport-to-city center transportation service, which are referred to as “trunk” routes. Once the trunk routes have been established, United’s next step will be to build out “branch” routes to connect to surrounding communities.

“Both Archer and United are committed to decarbonizing air travel and leveraging innovative technologies to deliver on the promise of the electrification of the aviation industry,” said Michael Leskinen, President of United Airlines Ventures. “Once operational, we’re excited to offer our customers a more sustainable, convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation during their commutes to the airport.” 

“Technological innovation thrives here in Chicago, and this venture between Archer and United is yet another example of this strength,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “This exciting new technology will further decarbonize our means of transportation, taking us another step forward in our fight against climate change. I’m pleased that Chicago residents will be among the first in the nation to experience this innovative, convenient form of travel.” 

ComEd, the Midwest’s largest utility company, will work with United and Archer to establish the power infrastructure necessary to support eVTOL aircraft operations in and around the Chicago Metropolitan Area. 

Why it matters: While eVTOL certification are still underway, planning for commercial operations offers a glimpse into the near-future reality of aerial mobility. Passengers will receive a new, more convenient option for getting to and from the airport, while helping to decarbonize aviation and save time that would be spent otherwise in traffic.

Source: Archer Aviation Press Release

Related:

• Stellantis to Help Mass-Produce Archer’s Midnight eVTOL (January 2023)
• Archer Achieves Forward Flight Transition with Maker (December 2022)
• Archer Unveils its Production Aircraft, Midnight (November 2022)

Zeva Aero, the previous creator of a disc-shaped personal eVTOL aircraft, has announced that it is now developing an aircraft on a pre-exisiting airframe in order to achieve the most efficient path to commercialization.

Zeva’s new aircraft, named the Argon, is based on a traditional fixed-wing Cessna 162 Skycatcher airframe. To convert the airframe to an eVTOL, Zeva will add supports that host vertical lift propellers to the tops of the wings, which will allow for electrically-powered take-off and landing.

With the vertical lift modifications to the aircraft, it is expected to have a 140mph cruise speed and a range of 330 nautical miles, with full electric vertical take-off and landing capability.

By using the pre-existing airframe rather than creating an entirely new aircraft, Zeva hopes to significantly reduce the time it will take to achieve aircraft certification as well the time it will take to reach the buyer market. The company plans to initially offer the Argon as an Experimental Amateur-Built kit, which it states represents almost 10% of the light aircraft fleet.

Zeva also hopes to maximize flight range while minimizing manufacturing, operational, and maintenance costs. The proven airframe should also provide increased safety as well as consumer confidence in the aircraft.

Although Zeva will now additionally focus on creating the Argon, development will continue on its other aircraft, the Z20. The Z20 has a disc shape, and uniquely, will use its own body shape in order to provide lift in forward flight. Zeva began prototype tests of this aircraft in 2022.

Through their products, Zeva hopes to capture the demand for private-ownership eVTOLs. Learn more about the aircraft on Zeva’s webite.

Why it’s important: This new product by Zeva indicates the company’s intentions to reach the market as soon as possible. By combining a proven and pre-certified airframe with new electric-lift capabilities, the company can provide a unique product that can reach buyers sooner rather than later. Additionally, by offering this aircraft as a kit, the company can save on manufacturing and delivery costs, while still providing an innovative eVTOL product to lead the market.

Source // Zeva Aero

Related:

• ZEVA Completes First eVTOL Test Flight (January 2022)
• ZEVA Aero Merges Assets With FabLab LLC (October 2022)

Wingcopter, a German manufacturer and operator of delivery drones, has announced a new partnership with ZAL Center of Applied Aeronautical Research GmbH to develop a sustainable, hydrogen-based propulsion system for its delivery drones. The goal is to refit the Wingcopter 198, which currently runs on battery power, to fly even more efficiently and with longer range, while still remaining emission-free. The partnership will explore the potential of green hydrogen and the use of compressed gaseous hydrogen in combination with a fuel cell, which has already been used successfully in ZAL’s own ZALbatros hydrogen drone.

The modification of the Wingcopter will take place at ZAL’s Fuel Cell Lab in Hamburg, with the aim of preserving the drone’s unique flight capabilities while incorporating the new hydrogen propulsion system. This development showcases Wingcopter’s commitment to expanding sustainable aviation and creates a potential avenue for increasing the capabilities of its drones. The partnership between Wingcopter and ZAL aligns well with ZAL’s values, as the organization seeks to create innovative solutions for sustainable aviation of all aircraft.

Wingcopter’s CEO, Tom Plümmer, said “We are happy to now explore technical possibilities in the field of hydrogen propulsion together with the ZAL experts and then put the best concept into practice.” Meanwhile, Roland Gerhards, CEO of ZAL GmbH, adds, “With our expertise, we want to convert the Wingcopter to hydrogen and thus strengthen the Hamburg UAM network Windrove with another flagship project.”

As an all-electric delivery drone provider specializing in improving medical supply chains and logistics, Wingcopter has already demonstrated an immense potential impact in improving and saving lives worldwide. The company’s investors include a range of organizations such as REWE Group, Salvia, XAI technologies, and Hessen Kapital III, among others. Meanwhile, ZAL is one of the world’s most modern research facilities for aviation, offering state-of-the-art infrastructure for joint research and development. With this partnership, the two organizations are poised to make strides in the aerial mobility industry, creating more sustainable and efficient solutions for the future.

Why it’s important: This partnership between Wingcopter and ZAL to develop a sustainable hydrogen-based propulsion system for delivery drones demonstrates Wingcopter’s vision for expanding the capabilities of delivery drones with alternate fuel types and increasing performance and efficiency based on mission requirements. Through the partnership, the two companies are positioned to make an immediate impact on the future of sustainable aerial logistics, and bring new innovations in propulsion to the industry.

SkyDrive, a Japanese eVTOL developer, has announced a partnership with VPorts to establish the world’s first Advanced Aerial Mobility Integrator World Center in Dubai. Taking up 37,000 square meters, the Center will be an operations control hub for Advanced Air Mobility Aircraft in Dubai.

Above: Concept Vertiport by SkyDrive

VPorts Air Traffic Management Inc. (“VPorts”), is a global leader in the design, construction, and operation of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure for upcoming vertical aircraft. The company was founded by experts in transportation infrastructure design and construction, city planning, and airport operations and design. The firm’s mission is to “shape the future development of safe advanced air mobility based on sustainable infrastructure.”

According to a recent press release by SkyDrive, the two companies have signed initial agreements to collaborate on the “technical and business” aspects of the upcoming Integrator Center, to leverage its use for the “business
development and market expansion” of both companies. This likely means that SkyDrive will have input into the Center’s design, so that it’s aerial mobility aircraft and flight services can be easily integrated.

Said Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive, “We are pleased to be taking a part in the UAE government’s strategy for AAM, particularly in Dubai as it is one of the fastest growing and leading AAM markets in the world. we are committed to making AAM transportation affordable to all in a highly accessible way, helping commuters access city centers and mobility hubs. By collaborating with VPorts, we are able to secure an air traffic corridor for our vehicle testing with our eVTOL capabilities which would be essential to ensure its safety before deployment in the urban areas.”  

Featured above is SkyDrive’s latest concept aircraft, the SD-05. This all-electric VTOL will be capable of carrying two passengers semi-autonomously, with air taxi services scheduled to launch in Osaka, Japan in 2025.

Said Dr. Fethi Chebil, CEO and Founder of VPorts, “We welcome SkyDrive to join us in shaping the future of the AAM sector by leveraging the world’s first Integrator Center, including its facilities and airspace. Our presence in Dubai is in line with our strategy and ambition to build and operate 1,500 vertiports around the world by 2045.”

Why it’s important: With this announcement, SkyDrive is making moves to establish itself as an early global leader in Advanced Aerial Mobility. By working with experts like Vports to establish the World Center, SkyDrive has an opportunity to set a global example in aerial mobility infrastructure and supporting operations.

Source // SkyDrive, VPorts

Related:

• SkyDrive brings their eVTOL Aircraft to South Carolina to break into U.S Markets (February 2023)
• SkyDrive Receives Order for up to 100 eVTOLs from Pacific Group (November 2022)
• SkyDrive Ranks Second in World Startup Competition (September 2022)