Category: Operators
Ferrovial Vertiports to Explore the Use of Embraer Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management Solutions
Eve Air Mobility has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Ferrovial Vertiports, a subsidiary of the global infrastructure operator Ferrovial, to explore the use of Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management (Urban ATM) software solution to support the safe and reliable operation of vertiports and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Ferrovial Vertiports focuses on the development of vertiport...

Ferrovial Vertiports to Explore the Use of Embraer Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management Solutions

Eve Air Mobility has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Ferrovial Vertiports, a subsidiary of the global infrastructure operator Ferrovial, to explore the use of Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management (Urban ATM) software solution to support the safe and reliable operation of vertiports and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Ferrovial Vertiports focuses on the development of vertiport networks for the take-off, landing, operation, and maintenance of passenger services of eVTOL.
“This agreement represents a significant step forward and is a strong validation of Eve’s Urban ATM service offering,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve. “Eve is more than an eVTOL manufacturer and we are working with companies like Ferrovial Vertiports to provide them with solutions that will allow these aircraft to operate safely and efficiently.”
“As a leading global infrastructure provider and operator for over 70 years, Ferrovial is committed to building and operating safe, efficient and sustainable transportation infrastructure, which is why we are truly excited to announce our collaboration with Eve. Our goal is to build a series of agnostic vertiport networks across the United States and Europe and ensuring that we are utilizing an agnostic state-of-the-art Urban Air Traffic Management system will be key to achieving our ambitions,” said Kevin Cox, Chief Executive Officer, Ferrovial Vertiports.
Ferrovial’s Vertiport division will provide an essential piece of the ecosystem to enable landing, recharging, and taking off with passengers of eVTOL aircraft. These intermodal centers will be integrated into cities and adapted to the surrounding environment. Their innovative design will reduce noise impact, allow zero operating emissions and improve energy efficiency.
Related:
- Eve Announces First Vertiport Operator Partner Bluenest by Globalvia
- United Airlines Ventures Adds Eve to its UAM Portfolio
- FlyBIS to Purchase 40 eVTOLs from Eve
Ferrovial Vertiports has already announced that it will develop a network of more than 10 vertiports across state of Florida, USA and a network of 25 vertiports across the United Kingdom. It is currently studying other markets in the United States and around the globe which will benefit from a more sustainable and efficient mode of urban transportation.
Why it’s important: Eve’s Urban ATM software is an agnostic solution that will enable the integration of all airspace users in the urban environment. This is critical to support the safety, efficiency, and improvement of the entire Urban Air Mobility (UAM) ecosystem, including fleet and vertiport operators. This new collaboration reinforces a shared commitment to safely integrating and scaling global UAM operations.
Seaglider manufacturer REGENT secures investment from Japan Airlines
REGENT, the company pursuing electric seagliders for sustainable maritime transportation, has announced a strategic investment from Japan Airlines Innovation Fund, the venture arm of Japan Airlines (JAL). “This strategic investment speaks to the growing adoption of seaglider technology by major airlines,” said Billy Thalheimer, co-founder and CEO of REGENT. “At REGENT, we’re at the helm of ushering in a...

Seaglider manufacturer REGENT secures investment from Japan Airlines

REGENT, the company pursuing electric seagliders for sustainable maritime transportation, has announced a strategic investment from Japan Airlines Innovation Fund, the venture arm of Japan Airlines (JAL).
“This strategic investment speaks to the growing adoption of seaglider technology by major airlines,” said Billy Thalheimer, co-founder and CEO of REGENT. “At REGENT, we’re at the helm of ushering in a completely new era in sustainable transportation, and JAL Innovation Fund’s investment gives us the resources and support that we need to unveil an innovative approach for regional travel at lower costs, faster speeds, and zero emissions.”
Seagliders are a new mode of transportation that combines the high speed of an airplane with the low operating cost of a boat. These all-electric, zero-emission vessels operate over the water and leverage existing dock infrastructure to carry people and goods up to 180 miles between coastal destinations.
The REGENT seaglider is an all-electric wing-in-ground effect vehicle, meaning it flies low (within one wingspan) over the water to take advantage of numerous aerodynamic and operational efficiencies, enabling increased payload capability and greater range than other electric aircraft concepts. The seaglider operates in three modes: from the dock, the vehicle first drives on its hull like a traditional boat. As it leaves the harbor area and speeds up, it rises on its retractable hydrofoil, which offers significant wave tolerance and a smooth ride as it leaves a crowded harbor. Upon reaching open water, the vehicle transitions onto its wing, retracting the foil and accelerating up to cruise speed—all while staying within a wingspan of the water’s surface. Driving a seaglider is enabled by coupling advanced digital flight software with simple boat controls.
REGENT has sold over 400 seagliders to date, to global aviation and ferry customers including Mokulele Airlines, Southern Airways Express, FRS (Germany), and Ocean Flyer (New Zealand). With more than $7.5 billion in orders from commercial operating partners around the world, REGENT aims for its 12-passenger seaglider, Viceroy, to enter service by mid-decade.
“We are very pleased to make this investment in REGENT from our CVC, JAL Innovation Fund,” says Yasushi Noda, Executive Officer, Senior Vice President – Digital Innovation at Japan Airlines. “We believe seagliders are a safe, sustainable, and economical solution and we are excited to work with REGENT to assess demand not only in Japan but around the world. We are delighted to add seagliders to JAL’s list of new challenges and are honored to work with REGENT to explore the possibilities of seagliders.”
In addition to the investment, REGENT and JAL are working together to explore opportunities for ecosystem development, bringing together relevant stakeholders to deliver the benefits of seagliders to new and underserved markets. REGENT’s investors to date include Thiel Capital, Y Combinator, Founders Fund, and Mark Cuban.
Why it’s important: This investment in REGENT serves as a first step in the exploration of incorporating seagliders into JAL’s global network and highlights its commitment to sustainable transportation. With this investment, REGENT has raised over $45 million to date. REGENT has also furthered its global reach that was substantiated largely by a recent commitment from German ferry operator, FRS, to operate the seagliders. REGENT’s growing portfolio of international customers also includes Ocean Flyer in New Zealand, Split Express in Croatia, and Brittany Ferries in the United Kingdom and France.
Eviation Announces Order From Aerus For 30 Alice All-Electric Commuter Aircraft
Eviation Aircraft, manufacturer of the all-electric Alice aircraft, announced that Aerus, an emerging regional airline in Mexico, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for 30 commuter aircraft. The nine-seater Alice is the world’s first flight-tested all-electric commuter aircraft. Built from a clean- sheet design, the Alice produces no emissions and costs significantly less to operate per flight hour compared to...

Eviation Announces Order From Aerus For 30 Alice All-Electric Commuter Aircraft

Eviation Aircraft, manufacturer of the all-electric Alice aircraft, announced that Aerus, an emerging regional airline in Mexico, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for 30 commuter aircraft.



The nine-seater Alice is the world’s first flight-tested all-electric commuter aircraft. Built from a clean- sheet design, the Alice produces no emissions and costs significantly less to operate per flight hour compared to light jets or high-end turboprops. It is powered by two magni650 electric propulsion units developed by magniX, the global industry leader in flight-proven electric propulsion systems.
Aerus is a new market entrant committed to sustainable and carbon-free technology. Launching commercial operations in 2023, Aerus will utilize Monterrey Airport (MTY) as its regional hub, offering an expanded flight schedule and covering routes that no other airlines currently operate. By introducing electric aircraft into its fleet, Aerus aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2033.
“Last week, U.S. President Joe Biden visited Mexico, where he and his counterpart, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, highlighted the economic opportunities created by the clean energy transition. The introduction of the Alice is certainly one of those opportunities,” said Eddie Jaisaree, Vice President, Commercial Sales at Eviation. “The aircraft offers a more enjoyable flight experience, lower operating costs, and meets the demand for zero-carbon technology that we are seeing from governments, regulators and the public. We are very pleased to receive this order from Aerus.”
“As we enter into service, our objective is to create new opportunities for regional travel in Mexico that are environmentally and economically sustainable,” said Javier Herrera García, CEO of Aerus. “Working with Eviation to bring a zero-emissions fleet to our region will transform the way we experience air travel and connect communities like never before.”
“Just as Uber disrupted the taxi market, Alice promises to usher in ‘UberAir’ through the introduction of low-cost, point-to-point air travel,” said Gregory Davis, President and CEO at Eviation. “Our aircraft is an ideal fit for Aerus as a large number of flights in northern Mexico are already less than 250 miles. We are always pleased to receive the endorsement of forward-thinking airlines that are keen to address the climate challenge and be part of the future of aviation.”
Why it’s important: Aerus intends to utilize Alice for middle-mile travel across regions including Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Coahuila and Veracruz, providing historically underserved communities in northern areas of the country with access to carbon-free, cost-effective and convenient air travel. This will markedly expand the global reach of Eviation in a new region, thereby edging early market share in the electric aviation industry and accelerating adoption of sustainable aviation in Mexico.
Source // Eviation press release
Skyports Drone Services Begins Hiring Project for Contract Drone Hub Operators
Skyports Drone Services announced on January 13th the launch of a large scale employment program aimed at recruiting personnel to support the roll out of drone operations across existing and emerging markets. The program is named the “Hub Operator Program” and intends to find applicants willing to travel for extended periods of time and work at the leading edge of...

Skyports Drone Services Begins Hiring Project for Contract Drone Hub Operators

Skyports Drone Services announced on January 13th the launch of a large scale employment program aimed at recruiting personnel to support the roll out of drone operations across existing and emerging markets. The program is named the “Hub Operator Program” and intends to find applicants willing to travel for extended periods of time and work at the leading edge of drone operations in the company’s key markets for 2023, which include Columbia, UAE, the UK, Kenya, and Korea.

Successful applicants to the Hub Operator Program will work alongside Skyports Drone Services’ team of experienced drone pilots to support flight operations.
Those selected for this program will serve as Hub Operators, who will support through the execution of non-safety critical roles, including: assisting the management and set up of flight hubs to enable efficient and safe aircraft landings and departures and the execution of key checklists required for the safe operation of Skyports Drone Services’ aircraft.
Applicants selected for the program will undergo a training program as well as receive ongoing guidance throughout to ensure they meet Skyports Drone Services high safety standard, and Skyports has stated that some of these operator jobs may be eligible for conversion to a full time role after completion of the program.
Alex Brown, Director, Skyports Drone Services, said of the program: “Demand for drone operations has skyrocketed in the last 18 months and we’re busier than ever with our delivery, survey and monitoring services.
Why it’s important: Skyports’ increased hiring targets for the Drone Hub operator program reinforce the level of demand for skilled persons who can manage drone hubs globally; further, the program will facilitate higher capacity flight operations rates to help develop the necessary knowledge and experience to eventually support larger scale aerial mobility operations of the future.
More information on the program and application information can be found here:
Lilium and eVolare sign deal for up to 20 aircraft
Lilium has expanded into the UK market with eVolare by signing a binding contract which includes pre-delivery payment for up to 20 Lilium eVTOL aircraft. This partnership includes a firm commitment for 10 Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets, with an option to purchase an additional 10 Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets later on. eVolare, a subsidiary of Volare Aviation, is one of...

Lilium and eVolare sign deal for up to 20 aircraft

Lilium has expanded into the UK market with eVolare by signing a binding contract which includes pre-delivery payment for up to 20 Lilium eVTOL aircraft. This partnership includes a firm commitment for 10 Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets, with an option to purchase an additional 10 Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets later on.

eVolare, a subsidiary of Volare Aviation, is one of the United Kingdom’s largest helicopter and private jet operators. The company is now poised to be Lilium’s lead partner and launch operator in the UK for sales of the Lilium Jet to private individuals.
The order coincides with the formal launch of the Lilium Pioneer Edition aircraft, which comes with a compelling service, support, and training package, as well as customizable options for the cabin configuration and exclusive fabrics and materials. In addition, eVolare will provide safe and reliable operation of Lilium’s aircraft from Oxford, running a maintenance service centre and investing in landing infrastructure for Lilium’s UK network.
Dustin Dryden, founder of eVolare said: “The revolutionary technology of the Lilium Pioneer Edition Jet coupled with its unique, premium cabin, made it a natural choice for us when looking to meet the future demands of an environmental conscious market. For all our customers, we can offer point to point time-saving travels in a sustainable, safe manner while introducing some incredibly exciting innovation to the UK market.”
Above: The executive configuration of the Lilium Jet’s interior
Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium said: “We are delighted to launch our Lilium Pioneer Edition Jet with eVolare. Not only is the demand for sustainable regional air mobility in London high but eVolare’s experience serving customers with business jets and helicopters operations is a great fit to our commercial first phase: getting the premium segment to adopt our aircraft while preparing the entire ecosystem for a larger market. eVolare’s visionary approach to sustainable air mobility also makes them the perfect partner for the United Kingdom.”
Why it’s important: This agreement between Lilium and eVolare will provide an opportunity for customers that regularly travel between locations within the UK to be part of an exclusive group of early adopters that can experience the future of sustainable regional air mobility. By association with such a leading voice in the private aviation sector, Lilium will benefit from eVolare’s extensive expertise within the UK aviation network, and its premium market to manage Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets in the UK.
Eve Announces First Vertiport Operator Partner Bluenest by Globalvia
Eve Air Mobility (“Eve”) (NYSE: EVEX; EVEXW) has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Bluenest, a company powered by Globalvia dedicated to innovation in advanced air mobility with a focus on vertiport infrastructure, to supply Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management (UATM) software solution in support of future Vertiport Automation Systems. As part of the agreement, the companies will jointly study the use...

Eve Announces First Vertiport Operator Partner Bluenest by Globalvia

Eve Air Mobility (“Eve”) (NYSE: EVEX; EVEXW) has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Bluenest, a company powered by Globalvia dedicated to innovation in advanced air mobility with a focus on vertiport infrastructure, to supply Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management (UATM) software solution in support of future Vertiport Automation Systems. As part of the agreement, the companies will jointly study the use of the software for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) operations by developing an operational model in specific regions and missions according to Bluenest’s needs.
“We firmly believe collaboration is the best way to make the future air mobility a reality,” highlighted Gema Ferrero, Managing Director of Bluenest by Globalvia. “Therefore, through this strategic collaboration, Eve and Bluenest will be able to better manage vertiport urban air mobility operations and related infrastructure, thus bonding sky and ground between the two companies.”
“Collaborating with Bluenest by Globalvia will further increase industry knowledge and perception of Eve as a strong provider of UATM solutions and continue to foster our understanding of vertiport operations,” said Andre Stein, Co-CEO of Eve. “Our software will support the integrated operation of UAM aircraft, optimising operational performance and safety, as well as preparing for both scale and eventual integration of uncrewed vehicles.”

Eve’s UATM software is an agnostic solution aiming to maximize vertiports’ efficiency and ensure high resource utilization as well as safe, effective air traffic management. Eve’s further development of its UATM customer base demonstrates its commitment to safe and successful vertiport operations and the full ecosystem necessary for a robust UAM market. Bluenest enters a selected group of partners to better improve their UAM operations.
Why it’s important: This partnership showcases Eve’s growing urban air traffic management customer group and is key in expediting the development of future vertiport operations and infrastructure. Eve said that its planned UATM software will be an agnostic platform that could be used by any of the eVTOL aircraft being developed for applications such as air taxi services; therefore, the headway made here will be transferrable to the entire aerial mobility industry and will benefit more than just the companies initially involved in the development.
EHang and HAECO to Partner for MRO Services
EHang this week announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with HAECO, a subsidiary of Swire Group and a world leading aircraft engineering and maintenance company. The two parties plan to cooperate in multiple areas such as manufacturing and assembly, continued airworthiness, digital platforms, aircraft maintenance, and talent training. The focus is to co-develop systems and solutions that...

EHang and HAECO to Partner for MRO Services

EHang this week announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with HAECO, a subsidiary of Swire Group and a world leading aircraft engineering and maintenance company. The two parties plan to cooperate in multiple areas such as manufacturing and assembly, continued airworthiness, digital platforms, aircraft maintenance, and talent training. The focus is to co-develop systems and solutions that cater to the needs of continued airworthiness and after-sales maintenance services in preparation for the commercial operation of EH216-S, EHang’s passenger-grade autonomous aerial vehicle.
Jacqueline Jiang, Group Director, Airframe Services of HAECO Group, noted, “Advanced air mobility is a blooming new segment in the aviation industry. We are excited to take part and look forward to developing this together with EHang. With over 70 years of experience in the industry and offering a wide range of aviation products and services, HAECO is well positioned to support EHang and jointly develop the systems, standards, and services required in advanced air mobility.”
Xin Fang, Chief Operating Officer of EHang, stated, “EHang is honored to cooperate with HAECO Group, a partner with solid Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (“MRO”) strength in the global aviation industry, to co-develop EHang’s AAV after-sales maintenance service system to provide our customers with higher quality and more efficient services across the globe, which will also facilitate the continued airworthiness of EH216-S AAV after the completion of its airworthiness certification. Moreover, this partnership is a critical step EHang has taken for its strategic goal of becoming an urban air mobility (“UAM”) platform operator, and it will also drive the emerging global UAM industry to explore more comprehensive, efficient, and sustainable operating service mechanism and ecosystem.”
We are glad to cooperate with @HAECO_Group to co-develop systems and solutions that cater to the needs of continued airworthiness and after-sales maintenance services in preparation for the commercial operation of EH216-S. #EHang #AAM #UAM
— EHang (@ehang) October 31, 2022
Learn more: https://t.co/J09ksy0ZFt」 pic.twitter.com/qsThX9TZeM
Why it matters: HAECO is a well reputed global aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) supplier providing line and base services for the industry’s leading operators. By partnering with EHang, the two companies can leverage their experience to provide a premium ownership and operating experience to customers. With a global network of talent, HAECO also will be able to provide services wherever EHang can obtain certification of its EH216-S vehicle.
Boeing and Wisk Release Urban Air Mobility Concept of Operations, Lay Path for UAM Ops by 2030
Last week, Boeing and their joint venture partner Wisk released a roadmap for transitioning to a future where automated and uncrewed aircraft can safely carry passengers and cargo in urban and suburban areas. This so-called concept of operations lays out the technology, regulatory and social recommendations needed to deploy aerial mobility systems in the United States and also includes information on integration...

Boeing and Wisk Release Urban Air Mobility Concept of Operations, Lay Path for UAM Ops by 2030

Last week, Boeing and their joint venture partner Wisk released a roadmap for transitioning to a future where automated and uncrewed aircraft can safely carry passengers and cargo in urban and suburban areas.
This so-called concept of operations lays out the technology, regulatory and social recommendations needed to deploy aerial mobility systems in the United States and also includes information on integration into the National Airspace System (NAS).
“We’re working to enable a future of aerospace that is safe, sustainable and at scale. Uncrewed operations will be fundamental to realizing that vision, and we have to exceed the current safety standards for the air transportation system,” said Brian Yutko, Boeing Vice President and Chief Engineer of Sustainability & Future Mobility.

The concept of operations begins by proposing bedrock principles for urban air mobility, including that flights should be safe and affordable for everyone. Additionally, the aircraft would be automated to reduce the load on air traffic controllers and pilots, and they would fly day or night under visual or instrument flight rules, and be supported by automated onboard and ground-based systems.
The summary paper of the progression from the current state to more autonomous UAM operations features more gradual changes of the current aircraft operations schema that currently exist; for instance, initial UAM operations will have pilots onboard; mid-term, pilots will support from ground stations, responsible for 2 or 3 UAM aircraft. Long term, pilots will be responsible for an even larger fleet of aircraft. The term “human-over-the-loop” was included in the study regarding the ultimate flight control responsibilities for aircraft that’ll eventually be mostly autonomous.
Boeing and Wisk say that evolutionary and pragmatic methods will be needed to make the vision of UAM a reality. This includes the creation of new infrastructure such as ‘vertiports,’ locations where UAM aircraft can take off and land, load and unload passengers, and receive services. Additionally, while the aircraft will be automated, Boeing and Wisk recommend the creation of ‘fleet operations centers’ where ‘multi-vehicle supervisors’ will monitor flights, implement air traffic control instructions to maintain aircraft separation, and ensure safe operation of the flight.
Additionally, the roadmap also outlines the variety of industry stakeholders that are essential to a successful deployment and maturation of the ConOps proposed. Existing airlines and aviation companies, such as United, Delta, American, Boeing, and Airbus will work in conjunction with specialty UAM/aerial mobility airframers, such as Wisk, Insitu, SkyGrid, Joby, Vertical Aerospace, EmbraerX’s Eve etc to develop the UAM environment of the future.
The ConOps also provides insight into the flight planning and operationalization of an autonomous UAM framework that includes new job roles, such as fleet operations managers and supervisors. While these titles traditionally exist in airline operations, their scope and types of challenges will differ to align with that of UAM operations.
Further, additional resources will be required for pre-flight planning, reservation booking system management, market demand aggregation, among other tasks. Other key responsibilities will include in-flight supervision and traffic conflict management.
Why it’s important: Boeing and Wisk’s ConOps represents a large volume of research and coordination from multiple industry leading partners that outlines the steps of a safe deployment of UAM operations in the United States by the end of the decade. The white paper and summary add detail to key functions of the UAM industry and operational environment that are required developments in the next 8 years, prior to 2030.
For more detail on ConOps, view the following resources:
Airbus and Hiratagakuen to test eVTOL flight routes and operations in the Kansai region
Airbus is partnering with Japanese helicopter operator Hiratagakuen to develop advanced air mobility services in the Kansai region and beyond. This is a key addition to the company’s strong regional footprint and growing international network to pioneer the future of mobility. Through this agreement, Airbus and Hiratagakuen will tackle crucial aspects required to launch a commercial transportation service with CityAirbus...

Airbus and Hiratagakuen to test eVTOL flight routes and operations in the Kansai region

Airbus is partnering with Japanese helicopter operator Hiratagakuen to develop advanced air mobility services in the Kansai region and beyond. This is a key addition to the company’s strong regional footprint and growing international network to pioneer the future of mobility.

Through this agreement, Airbus and Hiratagakuen will tackle crucial aspects required to launch a commercial transportation service with CityAirbus NextGen. As a major first step, the partners’ joint project to organise a simulation of ideal routes, concepts of operations and necessary equipment for safe eVTOL flights in the Kansai region, has been selected by the Osaka prefecture, with a demonstration flight scheduled for later this year.
With the aim to implement air mobility services beyond urban environments, the joint work of Airbus and Hiratagakuen will support the development of advanced air mobility solutions with CityAirbus NextGen, for use cases ranging from air medical services to commercial air transport and ecotourism in a variety of operational contexts. To reach this objective, and with the support of local stakeholders, Airbus and Hiratagakuen will use an H135 helicopter to test advanced navigation and communication technologies for safe operations of eVTOLs in urban environments, while simulating CityAirbus NextGen’s flight configuration.
Mitsuhiro Hirata, Vice President, Aviation Operation Division of Hiratagakuen, said “We are very pleased to conduct a demonstration flight in the Osaka-Kansai region with Airbus for the future of mobility, using the latest H135 helicopter. We have been operating Airbus helicopters for many years and highly appreciate their high safety, performance, operational reliability and proven after-sales support. We are aware that a revolution in air transportation is now approaching in the Osaka area, and we expect CityAirbus NextGen to play a central role in this revolution.”
Balkiz Sarihan, Head of UAM Strategy Execution and Partnerships at Airbus, said: “We are honoured to further our long standing collaboration with Hiratagakuen by working on this exciting journey towards zero emission flights. Their expertise in commercial air transport and air medical services operations makes them an ideal partner for defining the operational framework for advanced air mobility with CityAirbus NextGen in Japan”.

Hiratagakuen is a Kansai-based helicopter operator who specialises in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), transportation of personnel, flight training, and maintenance. The company’s current fleet includes 14 H135 and two H145 helicopters.
In September 2021, Airbus unveiled its eVTOL prototype CityAirbus NextGen, to explore advanced air mobility technologies and bring urban air mobility services to life. The Company just announced the construction of a dedicated centre to test the aircraft’s systems in the lead up to its maiden flight. Airbus is also working closely with industrial and institutional partners to lead the development of urban air mobility ecosystems, as recently announced with ITA Airways in Italy, or through the launch of the Air Mobility Initiative in Germany.
Related: MAGicaALL Motors Selected to Power CityAirbus NextGen
Why it’s important: The relationship between Airbus and Japan dates back over 60 years, during which over 600 commercial and fixed wing and rotorcraft have been delivered to Japanese operators. Airbus leads the Japanese helicopter market with over 50% market share in the civil and parapublic sectors, and over 370 helicopters in service with 100 customers. In Kobe, Airbus’ helicopter facilities offer a strong suite of helicopter products, training services and turnkey solutions across emergency medical services, law enforcement, electronic news gathering, and parapublic segments. The segue to eVTOL operations should be a relatively seamless transition as the company relationships and much of the urban air and ground infrastructure has already been established via these longstanding relationships.
Source // Airbus press release
Manta Aircraft and Avionord to develop platform for eVTOL medical transport services
Manta Aircraft and Avionord, a private air transport company highly specialized in medical air transport, have entered into an agreement to field as many as 15 hybrid-electric long-range vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft derived from the Manta Aircraft “ANN” platform in its medical services configuration. Avionord also invests in Manta Aircraft and takes a stake in the company. Deliveries...

Manta Aircraft and Avionord to develop platform for eVTOL medical transport services

Manta Aircraft and Avionord, a private air transport company highly specialized in medical air transport, have entered into an agreement to field as many as 15 hybrid-electric long-range vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft derived from the Manta Aircraft “ANN” platform in its medical services configuration. Avionord also invests in Manta Aircraft and takes a stake in the company. Deliveries are expected to start in 2026.

Because the hybrid-electric Manta aircraft features vertical take-off and landing and long-range flight capabilities, it is able to connect between helipads at hospitals in several different cities. This, combined with Manta’s low infrastructure requirements, low noise emissions, and cost effectiveness over traditional helicopters, results in new point-to-point capabilities and economic opportunities for regional medical transportation missions.
Above: The Manta eVTOL could provide quicker response times, smoother transport, and faster transportation to hospitals in cases of auto accidents and similar emergencies over traditional ground-based ambulances.
Lucas Marchesini, CEO of Manta Aircraft, comments: “We are very pleased of this partnership with Avionord, who have recognized the uniqueness of the ANN platform in terms of range, pushing into the direction of creating a real use case that will contribute to the rapid establishment of Advanced Air Mobility. From the outset, the design of the aircraft was planned for a relevant range and speed in combination with the low infrastructure requirements and overall costs at a fraction of the cost of a helicopter, in order to be suitable for this kind of operations.”
Said Avionord CEO Eugenio Cremascoli: “We are honored to be working with Manta Aircraft. After analyzing the market and considering our time-critical missions, we see that the Manta ANN platform is today the only eVTOL offering a range of several hundred kms, which is useful for the missions to transport quickly organs for transplantation from one hospital to another, avoiding being dependent on airports and road transport. The ANN eVTOLs will enable us to reduce the transportation time of the organs, that have a limited life when not connected to the dedicated machines, using aircraft with a reduced operating cost.”
Above: A Manta eVTOL is rendered performing a medical rescue mission for snow skiers
The investment of Avionord in Manta Aircraft follows the investment of other Italian tech companies and of the State-led CDP VC, in the effort to expedite the creation of an Italian AAM ecosystem. Manta is currently developing several kinds of hybrid-electric, long-range, vertical and short take-off and landing air vehicles designed for regional air mobility, planning to begin certification of the first two-seat, multi-purpose model ANN2 in 2023.
Why it’s important: The agreement between Manta Aircraft and Avionord establishes a promising partnership that will foster the development of an aerial mobility ecosystem in Italy, both for emergency services and for passenger-carrying operations. The initial use of Manta’s aircraft is planned mostly in special transports of organs for transplants, transport of equipment for re-perfusion of organs destined for transplantation, and for possible rapid-intervention operations, but later uses will likely include passenger transportation, which is Manta’s eventual goal.
Source // Manta Aircraft
Read more about Manta here
Wisk and Skyports Partner to Define Autonomous AAM Infrastructure Operations
Wisk Aero, the Bay-Area California based Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company, is partnering with Skyports to integrate autonomous, electric, vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations at vertiports and other ground-based infrastructure. The partnership marks a significant milestone as a collaboration between a vertiport developer-operator and an autonomous eVTOL developer in the U.S. While AAM services will initially launch with...

Wisk and Skyports Partner to Define Autonomous AAM Infrastructure Operations

Wisk Aero, the Bay-Area California based Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company, is partnering with Skyports to integrate autonomous, electric, vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations at vertiports and other ground-based infrastructure. The partnership marks a significant milestone as a collaboration between a vertiport developer-operator and an autonomous eVTOL developer in the U.S.
While AAM services will initially launch with piloted vehicles, Wisk, Skyports, and the broader industry recognize that autonomy is the key to unlocking the scalability, accessibility, and affordability needed to realize the full potential and total addressable market of AAM. Wisk and Skyports are defining autonomous eVTOL vertiport operations in order to ensure that vertiports and other ground-based infrastructure will be capable of supporting the autonomous operations needed for long-term success.
The partnership is evaluating core areas, including physical aircraft considerations (functions, capabilities, requirements, interfaces, and support), passenger accommodation, schedule management, ground operations management, final approach and takeoff management, navigational aids, situational awareness, contingency management, and airspace design.
The partnership has released a first-of-its-kind Concept of Operations (ConOps), which identifies how autonomous eVTOL aircraft and operators will integrate with vertiports, including interactions with Providers of Services for UAM (PSUs). The ConOps outlines the upgrades, retrofits, and procedure changes that will be required to accommodate safe operations for autonomous eVTOL aircraft. It also defines the journey of an autonomous eVTOL aircraft and its relationship to UAM-specific, aircraft-agnostic infrastructure and the necessary systems and interactions between the aircraft, the aircraft’s fleet operator, and the vertiport.
Related: Wisk Aero to Bring Advanced Air Mobility to Southern California

“We are excited to partner with Skyports, a leader in vertiports and AAM infrastructure,” said Gary Gysin, CEO of Wisk. “It is critical that future operations are autonomous for safety, scalability, and affordability. With this ConOps, Wisk and Skyports are helping to define those future operations while ensuring the long-term success and full potential of this industry.”
“It’s important that infrastructure built today can accommodate the aircraft of tomorrow,” said Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports. “We are thrilled to be partnered with Wisk as they push the bounds of aircraft systems innovation. The ConOps and our continued work on the development of vehicle-agnostic vertiports and ground-based infrastructure will ensure that this industry is well prepared to safely integrate autonomous operations in the future.”
Why it’s important: To date, the AAM industry has been heavily focused on the development of aircraft and associated technology. Today’s announcement and the release of the ConOps highlights the critical importance of evaluating operational considerations for infrastructure and other ecosystem elements as the industry approaches the launch of both piloted and autonomous operations.
German Airways Orders 17 Wingcopter Delivery Drones, Options for 115
German logistics and aviation holding Zeitfracht Group and its subsidiary German Airways will be among the first companies worldwide to commercially deploy drones in logistics. In a joint letter of intent with the German manufacturer Wingcopter, the companies have agreed to purchase 17 Wingcopter 198 delivery drones and acquire options to order an additional 115 drones in two further tranches...

German Airways Orders 17 Wingcopter Delivery Drones, Options for 115

German logistics and aviation holding Zeitfracht Group and its subsidiary German Airways will be among the first companies worldwide to commercially deploy drones in logistics. In a joint letter of intent with the German manufacturer Wingcopter, the companies have agreed to purchase 17 Wingcopter 198 delivery drones and acquire options to order an additional 115 drones in two further tranches by the end of 2023. The aircraft are to be deployed from the second half of 2024 – initially offshore, for example for the delivery of spare parts to wind farms.

The Zeitfracht Group is already successfully operating in this business with its specialized shipping company OPUS Marine. As the delivery drones must be able to land with pinpoint accuracy on a moving ship, their use will be technically demanding. German Airways and Wingcopter will work closely together on the development of this feature.
The Wingcopters will take off from Rostock Airport, which has also been part of the Zeitfracht Group since the beginning of the year and offers the Wingcopter development team an ideal environment for extended test flights as well as premises for measurements and the evaluation of the data collected in the process.
Holding an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), German Airways already fulfills essential requirements to operate Wingcopter’s delivery drones in the “specific category” and, later, in the “certified category”. In addition, German Airways is also IOSA certified and thus operates according to the highest internationally agreed standards of the international aviation authority IATA.
Wingcopters can carry a payload of up to five kilograms and – depending on the payload – can cover distances between 75 and 110 kilometers. The aircraft were selected by German Airways because of their extraordinary wind- and weather resistance and their globally leading payload-to-range ratio. They take off vertically, without requiring additional infrastructure, and then move forward horizontally in flight like a normal aircraft. Thanks to their purely electric propulsion, Wingcopter delivery drones also contribute to zero-emission logistics.
Zeitfracht CEO Wolfram Simon-Schröter: “At the Zeitfracht Group, we are very creative and always interested in using new technologies in a market-leading way. We believe the time is now ripe for the commercial use of drones, for example for the delivery of spare parts to offshore wind farms. With German Airways, our Rostock Airport and the experience of our shipping company OPUS in delivery operations on the high seas, together with Wingcopter we have the ideal prerequisites to drive this technology a huge step forward.”
“We are very pleased to have won Zeitfracht as a partner with extraordinary experience in the logistics and aviation sector. With the planned supply flights to ships and offshore wind farms, we will tap into a new, fast-growing field of application for which the Wingcopter 198 is ideally suited thanks to its high efficiency, even in extreme weather conditions. In addition, the test site and the close cooperation offer the opportunity to jointly develop further promising business areas,” adds Tom Plümmer, co-founder and CEO of Wingcopter.
Why it matters: The first widespread implementation of eVTOL technology will likely be with drones and the German Airways/Wingcopter partnership is the latest iteration in a long string of delivery drone partnerships. For Zeitfracht Group, the Wingcopter 198 offers an ideal solution for delivery of spare parts to over-water wind farms with speed, accuracy, and zero emissions.
Joby, CAE to Partner for eVTOL Aircraft Simulators
CAE, a global leader in aviation training devices, announced today that it has partnered with Joby to develop and qualify flight simulation training devices that will be used to train pilots of Joby’s revolutionary all-electric aircraft. Leveraging the core simulation technology Joby has been developing for the past five years, CAE will work with Joby to develop pilot training devices...

Joby, CAE to Partner for eVTOL Aircraft Simulators

CAE, a global leader in aviation training devices, announced today that it has partnered with Joby to develop and qualify flight simulation training devices that will be used to train pilots of Joby’s revolutionary all-electric aircraft.
Leveraging the core simulation technology Joby has been developing for the past five years, CAE will work with Joby to develop pilot training devices specifically for the company’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Joby is unique in the eVTOL industry in that it intends to both manufacture and operate its aircraft, requiring the company to train a new generation of pilots. Used to simulate aircraft flight in various environments and conditions, flight simulators are an integral part of readying pilots to fly a new type of aircraft.
“CAE has a sterling reputation for delivering excellent simulation and training solutions,” said Bonny Simi, Head of Air Operations and People for Joby. “We look forward to a world where thousands of Joby pilots are flying our aircraft every day and we couldn’t ask for a better partner to help make that a reality.”
Joby is currently working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to secure its Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate, establishing the processes and regulatory approvals necessary for the company to operate commercially, with an expected service launch in 2024.
“We are thrilled to partner with Joby to help bring their pioneering vision to life,” said Nick Leontidis, CAE’s Group President, Civil Aviation Training Solutions. “With more than 75 years of experience in the design, development and manufacture of flight simulators, CAE brings extensive expertise with new aircraft types to support the qualification of Joby’s eVTOL fixed base flight training device and full-flight simulator with the FAA.”
Why it matters: CAE is a global leader in developing flight training devices for commercial and business aviation platforms. The partnership will ensure Joby is able to offer a high quality simulation device for its student pilots and will aid it in its case for pursuing a Part 135 Air Carrier certificate.
Eve and Falko to develop Global Operator Network with a potential order for 200 eVTOLs
Eve UAM, an Embraer subsidiary, and Falko Regional Aircraft Limited, a global leader in commercial regional aircraft leasing, have announced a Letter of Intent which contemplates a potential order for 200 of Eve’s electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) and a commercial partnership to develop a global network of eVTOL operators in support of Urban Air Mobility missions. The...

Eve and Falko to develop Global Operator Network with a potential order for 200 eVTOLs

Eve UAM, an Embraer subsidiary, and Falko Regional Aircraft Limited, a global leader in commercial regional aircraft leasing, have announced a Letter of Intent which contemplates a potential order for 200 of Eve’s electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) and a commercial partnership to develop a global network of eVTOL operators in support of Urban Air Mobility missions.
The partnership between Eve and Falko will begin by establishing a working group to collaborate with Falko’s existing operators to develop initial route networks where Eve’s aircraft can be deployed in early adopter markets. Additionally, Eve’s agnostic product portfolio of next-generation air traffic management software, service capabilities, and fleet operations services will also be introduced to create a safe, scalable network for each Falko lessee using Eve’s aircraft.
Falko has been closely cooperating with Embraer since 2014 and chose Eve as its Urban Air Mobility partner due to Embraer’s long record for certifying trusted aircraft for over 52 years.
Related: Eve to List on NYSE Through Business Combination with Zanite Acquisition Corp.
“I am thrilled to announce this huge development in our long-standing and successful relationship with Embraer. We are very excited by our strategic partnership with Eve which forms part of our drive to be at the forefront of the greening of the aviation sector. We firmly believe in the prospects of the eVTOL market and that Eve, with the support of Embraer’s experience in the manufacturing, certification, and support of aircraft, will be a market leader,” states Jeremy Barnes, CEO of Falko.
“Our partnership with Falko, a trusted aircraft leasing leader, cements our position in the global Urban Air Mobility marketplace and not only widens our potential operator base through Falko’s global customer footprint but increases our ability to provide full-stack solutions, through partnerships. We are proud to have Falko as a strategic partner in Eve as our two organizations collaborate to lead a new generation of sustainable innovation, in aviation,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve.
Why it’s important: The prospect of Eve providing up to 200 eVTOLs would be a substantial jumpstart for Embraer’s urban air mobility division. It would serve as a source of funding for further research and development of their vehicle as future improvements will be imminent while the nascent industry expands and evolves to fit consumer needs. On the other hand, Eve also has the benefit of calling upon funding from the larger Embraer corporation if needed to bolster certification and manufacturing efforts. This is in stark contrast to the vast number of UAM startup companies that must pursue investor contributions or public stock offerings to facilitate progress.
Source // Eve press release
Overair Partners with Bristow for eVTOL Operations
Overair has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Bristow Group Inc. The two companies plan to collaborate on the development of the Overair Butterfly‘s commercialization plans. Bristow has pre-ordered 20 to 50 Butterfly aircraft and both companies will work together to develop an operations development framework focusing on vehicle design considerations, key performance parameters, FAA...

Overair Partners with Bristow for eVTOL Operations

Overair has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Bristow Group Inc. The two companies plan to collaborate on the development of the Overair Butterfly‘s commercialization plans.

Rendering of the Overair Butterfly eVTOL with Bristow Group branding
Bristow has pre-ordered 20 to 50 Butterfly aircraft and both companies will work together to develop an operations development framework focusing on vehicle design considerations, key performance parameters, FAA certification, flight planning best practices, data sharing for improvement of flight operations, connected vehicle and health monitoring strategies, configuration and maintenance protocols, infrastructure, ground support operations, connected fleet management, and government affairs and promotion of eVTOL operations.
“Bristow’s decades of vertical lift experience will greatly enhance Butterfly’s path to commercialization. Their operating insight, combined with our development and execution of the Butterfly program, will position Butterfly to serve Bristow as a valuable workhorse on high-density routes,” said Ben Tigner, Chief Executive Officer of Overair. “We’re elated to learn from Bristow’s practical expertise and ultimately deliver an aircraft optimized for their use cases.”
“Our MOU with Overair allows us to advance our leadership position in the vertical transportation market that we’ve built over the past 70+ years and will now set the stage for the next generation of vertical flight. Our collaboration facilitates expansion into new high-density geographic markets with sustainable, innovative and efficient vertical lift and aerial transport services,” said Bristow President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Bradshaw. “As the global leader in vertical lift, Bristow’s operational expertise and efficiency, supported by the trust and confidence of our customers, can safely bring eVTOL aircraft into the market.”
Bristow, one of the world’s largest and most experienced helicopter operators, plans to use the unique attributes of Overair’s eVTOL aircraft to help reduce its carbon footprint. The company recognizes the benefits of a varied fleet and intends to diversify its existing operations with Butterfly and other eVTOLs for commercial air taxi routes in metropolitan areas. Notably, of the vehicles Bristow is currently considering, Butterfly is the only aircraft with a vectored thrust configuration.
Bristow expects to optimize its fleet management strategy by matching eVTOL attributes with the most economically productive mission profiles. Butterfly’s low-noise profile, payload capacity and ability to fly in a broad range of weather conditions will be well-suited for high-density, noise sensitive routes in geographies with varied environmental concerns. The Butterfly aircraft features low maintenance costs and mechanical simplicity, which enables high vehicle uptime and utilization, increasing operator margins and passing value on to riders.
Overair’s experience developing military-grade rotorcraft propulsion systems is expected to unlock a highly strategic collaboration between the two companies. Work is set to begin immediately, focusing on FAA certification planning, a robust safety operating culture, and other unique aspects of vertical flight operations.
Why it matters: Bristow brings extensive experience in commercial operations to Overair’s expertly-designed eVTOL aircraft. Together, the two will use their expertise to effectively integrate eVTOL operations into Bristow’s existing fleet, introducing new possibilities for the companies’ offerings and passing value on to customers.
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