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German eVTOL developer Lilium has revealed the launch of an underwritten public offering of its Class A ordinary shares, alongside a concurrent private placement offering of shares and warrants, led by prominent investors such as Earlybird Venture Capital, BIT Capital, UVC Partners, and Frank Thelen, as well as several Lilium Board members and senior executives.

The private placement, also known as the PIPE (Private Investment in Public Equity), is bolstered by the commitment of Aceville Pte. Limited, an affiliate of Tencent Holdings Limited, to provide an additional $75 million in funding. This injection of capital will be used to partially prepay against the total exercise price of the warrants under the existing purchase agreement between Lilium and Aceville, subject to the successful generation of at least $75 million in gross proceeds from the underwritten public offering and concurrent PIPE.

To ensure flexibility, the underwriter of the public offering will have the option to purchase up to an additional 15% of the shares sold during the 30-day period following the offering, specifically to cover over-allotments. The renowned firm B. Riley Securities has been appointed as the sole bookrunner and underwriter for the offering.

Lilium intends to employ the net proceeds from this comprehensive financing initiative for general corporate purposes. However, the successful completion of the offering remains subject to various market, regulatory, and other conditions, and there is no guarantee as to its actual size or terms.

Simultaneously, the private placement involves a securities purchase agreement between Lilium and esteemed investors. This agreement entails the purchase of shares at a price of $1.30 per share, along with warrants to purchase shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share. Each warrant will be immediately exercisable for one quarter of a share, with only whole shares issuable upon exercise.

The public offering is expected to conclude on July 18, 2023, with $21 million of the PIPE anticipated to close on the same date and the remaining $21 million expected to close on July 31, 2023. These closings are subject to customary closing conditions. With this significant financing milestone, Lilium fortifies its position in the small group of frontrunners in the rapidly evolving urban air mobility industry, driving toward the realization of its all-electric vertical take-off and landing technology.

Why it’s important: The substantial financing secured by Lilium underscores the growing recognition and support for the potential of urban air mobility, namely from Tencent, one of the highest revenue-generating multimedia companies in the world. With these funds, Lilium can accelerate the development and deployment of its eVTOL jets, paving the way for a transformative transportation solution that offers enhanced efficiency, reduced emissions, and increased accessibility in urban environments.

Related:

• Lilium Achieves G-1 Certification Basis From FAA
• Lilium Aircraft will Operate in Belgium, Switzerland, and Italy with New Orders

EHang has announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bao’an District Government of Shenzhen municipality on a comprehensive strategic partnership in urban air mobility for commercial operations of EH216-S AAVs following the completion of the EH216-S type certification. Bao’an District and EHang will jointly develop UAM use cases, systems and routes to build Shenzhen as a national low-altitude economy development demonstration city. Leveraging the high-quality resources of Bao’an District, EHang plans to establish the company’s first UAM Operation Demonstration Center at the OH Bay, an urban landmark in Shenzhen, and to launch aerial tourism and sightseeing experience services with EH216-S AAVs.

Under this strategic partnership, the Bao’an District Government will provide comprehensive support for EH216-S AAV procurement, financial leasing, infrastructure construction, and low-altitude operations in the area. Based on that, EHang plans to establish an EH216-S AAV Assembly and Delivery Center, a Research and Development Testing Center, as well as a Maintenance Support Center in Bao’an District in the future to ensure local UAM operational services.

Mr. Meng Jinjin, Executive Deputy District Mayor of Bao’an District, expressed, “Bao’an District has been committed to providing a favorable market environment and policy framework for enterprises in the low-altitude economy industry and highly values the innovative development of the new aviation industry. EHang, as a global leader in the UAM industry, boasts extensive experience in the research, development, production, and operations of passenger-carrying AAVs. Starting with the UAM Operation Demonstration Center at the OH Bay, we aspire to further collaborate with EHang to carry out various UAM projects in Bao’an District, with a goal to develop more than 10 routes within this year. We believe our partnership with EHang will drive the prosperity of the low-altitude economy in Bao’an District and bring a more convenient and efficient way of life to Shenzhen for a prosperous blueprint for the low-altitude economy.”

Mr. Xin Fang, Chief Operating Officer of EHang, stated, “Shenzhen is a city full of innovative vitality and possesses a strong foundation in intelligent manufacturing with expansive market demands for the development of the low-altitude economy, which the city is currently vigorously promoting. As a global leader in the AAV industry, we are delighted to collaborate with the Bao’an District Government of Shenzhen municipality to jointly explore UAM operations. We look forward to contributing EHang’s expertise to establishing a low-altitude service ecosystem by advancing the sales, uses, and maintenance of EH216-S AAVs to ultimately nurture high-quality development of the low-altitude economy in Shenzhen and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.”

Since the beginning of this year, Shenzhen municipality has continued to strengthen its support for the low-altitude economy industry. Shenzhen’s 2023 Government Work Report proposed to establish a Low-Altitude Economy Center and a Civil Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Demonstration Zone, and put the Regulations on Promotion of Shenzhen Special Economic Zone Low-Altitude Economy Industry as its key legislative project. Bao’an District is a core aviation industrial hub in Shenzhen, with a robust manufacturing foundation and well-established supply chain that possesses strong advantages for the development of the low-altitude economy. The OH Bay, a Shenzhen’s landmark located in the center of Bao’an District, has a prosperous and developed cultural and tourism industry, which will provide a broad market prospect for EH216-S AAVs to be the first eVTOL aircraft to launch and operate in this area.

EHang and Shenzhen Bao’an District Form Strategic Partnership for UAM Operation Center – YouTube

Why it matters: EHang continues to make impressive progress with local municipalities in its home country. Expect to see similar partnerships for EHang and other eVTOL makers as manufacturers look for creative ways to market and operate their aircraft.

Source: EHang Press Release

Doroni Aerospace has reached a remarkable milestone in the development of its innovative two-seat eVTOL aircraft. Priced at US$195,000, this “buy ‘n’ fly” eVTOL is another in a series of aircraft aimed at changing the way people view personal transportation. The company made headlines recently when its CEO, Doron Merdinger, piloted the prototype for its inaugural manned flight.

The Doroni H1 boasts a bubble cabin suspended by eight large, ducted coaxial propellers cleverly integrated into front and rear wings of equal size. Similar to other personal eVTOLs like the SkyFly Axe and Air One, the H1 employs upward-tilted wings. This unique configuration allows the aircraft to transition from a hover to forward flight, generating lift at that angle.

What sets the Doroni H1 apart is the inclusion of a horizontal propulsion system, consisting of two rear-mounted pusher props. While specific implementation details remain undisclosed, this additional propulsion system enhances the H1’s overall performance and capabilities.

During the recent manned flight test, the prototype exhibited its functionality, albeit in a stripped-down configuration. Without wings, pusher props, or windows, and with minimal bodywork except for a basic cabin cover, the prototype showcased the potential of Doroni’s groundbreaking technology. The rudimentary landing gear resembled a repurposed barbell, while a battery box occupied the passenger seat area, highlighting the prototype’s raw state.

Despite its minimalist appearance, the prototype achieved a significant milestone by successfully carrying a person onboard. Although the flight was brief and displayed some instability, even within the controlled indoor environment, it undeniably marked a noteworthy achievement.

To witness this historic flight, Doroni Aerospace has provided a video (linked below) in which the intended bodywork has been overlaid, giving viewers a glimpse of the finalized design. The accompanying footage captures the exuberant celebration of the team, showcasing the enthusiasm surrounding this groundbreaking accomplishment.

In a YouTube description box, CEO Doron Merdinger expressed his absolute thrill regarding the team’s remarkable success in completing the first-ever manned test flight of a personal 2-seater eVTOL in the United States. Merdinger described the experience as floating on a cushion of air, evoking an unparalleled sense of freedom and excitement. The CEO’s boundless enthusiasm reflects his anticipation of delivering these extraordinary vehicles to the world. Merdinger firmly believes that Doroni Aerospace’s technology stands out within the aerospace industry, poised to revolutionize personal transportation in unprecedented ways.

Congratulations are in order for the Doroni Aerospace team on reaching this significant milestone. As development progresses, it will be fascinating to witness the capabilities of the fully assembled aircraft during cruising. Doroni has promised an impressive range of approximately 60 miles (100 km) per charge, cruising speeds of 100 mph (160 km/h), and top speeds reaching 140 mph (225 km/h).

Looking ahead, the company aims to subject the design to comprehensive testing and pursue FAA certification as a Light Sport Aircraft by 2024. Customer deliveries are anticipated to begin in 2025. Prospective pilots will be required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of training to operate these extraordinary eVTOLs, ensuring safety and adherence to regulatory standards. Doroni Aerospace remains steadfast in its mission to redefine the future of personal transportation, ushering in a new era of mobility.

Why it’s important: The recent milestone achieved by Doroni Aerospace in completing the first manned flight of their two-seat eVTOL aircraft is important in the aerial mobility industry because this flight demonstrates progress towards the realization of personal flying cars and the future of urban air mobility. By successfully combining vertical takeoff and landing capabilities with forward flight, Doroni’s innovative design opens up possibilities for efficient and accessible transportation in congested urban environments.

VoltAero is set to make its U.S. debut of the Cassio 330. The company’s CEO and Chief Technology Officer, Jean Botti, will introduce the Cassio 330 and provide insights into VoltAero’s roadmap for the development and production of the Cassio aircraft family on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. at the EAA AirVenture Booth #429.

The North American unveiling of the Cassio 330 comes just weeks after the prototype was showcased at the Paris Air Show. VoltAero, under the leadership of Jean Botti, is bringing the future of e-aviation to Oshkosh by showcasing the groundbreaking Cassio aircraft. The Cassio 330 on display will feature a passenger interior and cutting-edge Quantum avionics from Avidyne, which is the first application of their new-generation 14-inch dual PFD/MFD configuration. This collaboration highlights Avidyne’s exclusive agreement with VoltAero to develop and supply the Cassio 330’s avionics.

In addition to the Cassio 330, VoltAero’s newest strategic investor, Kawasaki, will unveil hydrogen-powered thermal engines designed to power future versions of the Cassio aircraft. This marks a significant milestone for Kawasaki as it charts its path into the general aviation market.

VoltAero’s Cassio represents a new era in general aviation with its patented electric-hybrid propulsion system. This technology enables safe, quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly flight, setting the Cassio apart from conventional aircraft. With the Cassio 330 leading the way, the family of 5-12 seat aircraft offers versatility for various applications, including air taxi/charter, commercial flights, cargo, postal delivery, Medevac, and private ownership. VoltAero’s modular design strategy ensures that these aircraft share significant commonality, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

The U.S. debut of VoltAero’s electric-hybrid aircraft family is a significant milestone in the advancement of sustainable aviation. With innovative propulsion systems and forward-thinking design, VoltAero is leading the charge in transforming the industry. The introduction of the Cassio 330 and the company’s roadmap for future development and production signals a promising future for clean and efficient air transportation.

Why it’s important: VoltAero’s electric-hybrid aircraft family represents a crucial step towards sustainable aviation. By combining electric and hybrid propulsion technologies, these aircraft offer safe, quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly flight capabilities. With applications ranging from air taxi services to cargo delivery, these innovative aircraft have the potential to revolutionize the aviation industry and reduce its environmental impact.

Los Angeles-based electric aviation company, Surf Air Mobility, is expanding regional air travel through electrification. The company aims to develop powertrain technology with commercial partners to bring electrified aircraft to the market at scale, reducing costs and environmental impact. Surf Air Mobility recently announced its plan to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange as a publicly traded company, using the ticker symbol “SRFM.” This listing is expected to occur during the week of July 24th, following its acquisition of regional carrier Southern Airways.

Surf Air Mobility has been supporting the development of hybrid and fully electric propulsion systems for Cessna Grand Caravans. The goal is to retrofit existing turboprop aircraft and electrify regional plane fleets, promoting sustainability in aviation.

To strengthen its financial position, Surf Air Mobility secured an agreement with investment group Gem Global Yield. Gem has committed to purchasing 1 million shares of Surf stock at $25 per share upon the company’s public listing, providing potential funding of up to $400 million. This collaboration will support Surf Air Mobility’s future projects.

Operating as a membership-based platform, Surf Air Mobility allows members to book flights with third-party operators in California. The company is recognized for delivering exceptional user experiences in the regional air mobility segment.

By acquiring Southern Airways Express, Surf Air Mobility plans to establish a comprehensive regional airline network across the United States. This network will serve cities across various regions, including the mid-Atlantic, Gulf Coast, Midwest, Rocky Mountains, West Coast, New England, and Hawaii.

Surf Air Mobility filed a registration statement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on June 5th, setting the stage for its stock exchange listing. The completion of the acquisition with Southern Airways is a requirement for this process.

Why it’s important: The listing represents a fresh start for Surf Air Mobility after the termination of its previous merger deal. Unlike an initial public offering, a direct listing allows shareholders to sell shares directly to the public. This approach provides flexibility and adaptability to market conditions. Surf Air Mobility’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange marks a significant milestone, as the company drives the development and deployment of electrified aircraft. By prioritizing sustainability and exceptional travel experiences, Surf Air Mobility is poised to revolutionize regional air travel.

Related:

• Surf Air Mobility Works toward Electric future with AeroTEC and MagniX; Announces IPO
• Surf Air Mobility to Order 150 Grand Caravan EX Aircraft for Hybrid-Electric Product Offering

Merlin Labs, an advanced aviation technology company, has reached a significant milestone in the development of its advanced automated flight system. Following a lucrative $1 million contract with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Merlin recently completed a series of 25 test flights in Alaska, showcasing its highly-automated flight control system alongside a safety pilot.

In collaboration with the FAA-designated University of Alaska Fairbanks UAS Test Site and Everts Air Cargo, Merlin successfully deployed its integrated hardware and software solution, the Merlin Pilot, on crewed aircraft for these groundbreaking test flights. Departing from Fairbanks, the flights ventured into rural areas, reaching destinations such as Fort Yukon, Galena, Huslia, Tanana, and Prudhoe Bay. Throughout the course of these flights, the Merlin Pilot logged over sixty hours of autonomous flight time, collecting vital data in real-world conditions characterized by challenging terrains and adverse weather.

This extensive data acquisition is crucial for enhancing Merlin’s in-flight capabilities and driving progress in aviation autonomy. By pushing the boundaries of technology in actual operating environments, Merlin aims to make the skies safer and more accessible for future generations. As a result of these successful test flights, Merlin has achieved a major feat, becoming the first autonomy system to be integrated into the National Airspace System (NAS).

Operating in Alaska poses unique challenges due to its vast distances, extreme climate variations, and limited communication coverage. Dr. Cathy Cahill, Director of the Alaska Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration (ACUASI) at the UAF Geophysical Institute, praised Merlin’s ability to navigate these challenges successfully. She emphasized their integrated approach to Alaska’s distinctive ecosystem as a key factor in their selection for collaboration with the FAA. Merlin’s commitment to using real data for training their onboard automation system ensures the highest level of safety.

Matthew George, co-founder and CEO of Merlin, expressed his gratitude for the support and partnership of the FAA, Everts Air Cargo, and ACUASI. He highlighted the critical role played by the flight trial data in refining their in-flight technology and certifying the Merlin Pilot. Moreover, George underscored the significance of the Merlin Pilot’s capability to access remote locations in Alaska, demonstrating its potential to support dangerous missions.

Why it’s important: Merlin’s successful completion of the test flights in Alaska represents a significant step forward in advancing the future of automated flight. By collecting valuable data in challenging real-world environments, Merlin’s technology holds the potential to advance flight operations crewing solutions while also increasing the safety and repeatability of operational execution.

ASKA A5 is the world’s first flying car to start the type certification process with the FAA. The Silicon Valley air mobility company’s prototype was awarded Certificate of Authorization (COA) and Special Airworthiness Certification by the FAA and has started flight testing.

Since 2022 ASKA has performed successful ground testing and in Q1/2023 began conducting on-street driving tests. This Special Airworthiness Certificate signals that ASKA™ A5 has successfully met all FAA safety requirements.

“We have achieved a series of technological milestones; debuting the first full-scale working prototype of the ASKA™ A5 in January at CES, successfully performing field and driving tests, and obtaining the COA and Special Airworthiness Certification for our pre-production prototype,” says Guy Kaplinsky, CEO/Cofounder. “The data we are harvesting from flight testing is enabling us to make progress towards our type certification. We already completed the initial phase and are progressing towards our next milestone, G1 status.”

The size of an SUV, the four-seater ASKA™ A5 is a drive & fly eVTOL that can travel by road and air. The vehicle is designed for the highest level of safety, a key factor that has enabled the company to make positive progress with the FAA toward type certification. Other key features include:

• Dual hybrid energy supply: ASKA is hybrid with batteries and a range extender engine that charges the batteries in-flight. Uses premium gasoline available from today’s gas stations
• Large Aerodynamic wings, optimized for safe landing with ability to glide
• Six independent motor systems for flight
• Sufficient reserve flight time to meet FAA safety requirement
• Ballistic parachute
• 4 seat capacity (1 pilot and 3 passengers)
• Capable of Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) from helipads and Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) from runways
• Max flight range 250 miles
• Airspeed up to 150mph

“The airworthiness certification validates our efforts to develop a drive & fly eVTOL with an emphasis on safety,” explains Maki Kaplinsky, CoFounder/Chair & COO. “One of the significant advantages of a roadworthy eVTOL, like the ASKA™ A5, is that it does not require the modification or electrification of existing airports since it can maximize the use of today’s infrastructure, such as the many charging stations located around us. We are working with local airports in the Bay Area to test and confirm our concept of operations – they open the gate, ASKA™ A5 drives in as a car, drives/taxis to the helipad or runway, transforms into the flight mode and can take off.”

ASKA™ A5 makes the maximum use of existing infrastructure, such as parking, charging stations, airfields, helipads and runways, for a seamless integration into city and suburban landscapes. The vehicle fits in standard parking spaces, it can be charged at home and EV charging stations, and the range extender engine runs on premium gasoline purchased at existing automotive gas stations.

Pre-order reservations launched in 2021 and the company has already secured $50M in pre-orders.

Why it’s important: This announcement demonstrates that ASKA has been working closely with the FAA on type certification, which signifies the design is in compliance with applicable airworthiness, noise, fuel venting, and exhaust emissions standards. Further, G-1 basis is a critical milestone in the FAA cross-validation process, establishing airworthiness and environmental requirements necessary to achieve FAA Type Certification Validation.

Related:

• ASKA eVTOL to debut at CES 2023
• NFT Aska eVTOL Now Available for Pre-Order

Ampaire released a 20 page Whitepaper in late June which details the primary benefits of hybrid electric propulsion, named the Executive Guide 1.0. This guide focuses on the current technological readiness of hybrid electric propulsion systems that Ampaire’s aircraft feature and why the current landscape best supports hybrid electric propulsion solutions, at least until battery energy densities increase beyond what is currently available.

In fours primary sections, the document outlines the basics of hybrid electric vs. all electric propulsion, then details the basic system of hybrid electric propulsion. It examines hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) advancements and projections for renewable energy source integration into the greater aviation powertrain ecosystem in the future.

The Whitepaper also outlines the ways hybrid electric systems benefit the efficiency and capabilities of aircraft, and how Ampaire specifically distributes their energy generation from ICE and battery sources during a flight. Another unique component of the analysis is the trade study of hydrogen or SAF use in smaller airplanes. While Ampaire has adopted the hybrid approach, companies like ZeroAvia are beginning to work on larger scale hydrogen fuel cell adaptations for turbine motors. ZeroAvia currently uses hydrogen fuel cell technology to power its Bombardier Q400 turboprop which is undergoing flight testing in Moses Lake, Washington and has future plans to convert a Dornier 228 to run on hydrogen.

Why it’s important: Fully electric aircraft are in our aviation future, but current models are challenged by battery energy density limits and battery weights that remain unchanged during energy consumption. On the contrary, once jet fuel is burned it results in a total aircraft weight reduction, allowing for increased performance. Accordingly, many OEMs are focusing on hybrid propulsion systems that leverage the benefits of internal combustion engines and battery technology for certain phases of flight, a best of both worlds approach given the current technological landscape. Analysts project that full electrification of small to regional jet sized airplanes is possible within the next decades, however large wide-body aircraft are not likely to see electrification given the current landscape; sustainable aviation fuel will likely serve as a means to offset total carbon lifecycle emissions for larger, longer range aircraft.

Read the full Whitepaper on Ampaire’s website here.

Related:

• Ampaire Receives Order for 6 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft from Conecta, Subsidary of Azul Airlines
• Ampaire Wins NASA Award for Innovative Hybrid Powerplant System Research

AutoFlight, an Advanced Air Mobility aircraft developer, and Groupe ADP, a world leader in airport operations, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to experimentally operate the “Prosperity I” electric take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) aircraft from Pontoise Vertiport during the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Under the MoU, AutoFlight will conduct experimental piloted flights from the Pontoise Vertiport, Europe’s most advanced airfield for sustainable air mobility. Pontoise Vertiport offers a comprehensive infrastructure encompassing dedicated take-off and landing areas, a state-of-the-art passenger terminal, a fully equipped maintenance hangar, and advanced control areas. As Groupe ADP is spearheading the development of eVTOL infrastructure in the Paris Region with five additional vertiports in the making (Paris heliport in Issy-les-Moulineaux, Paris Austerlitz, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Le Bourget, Saint-Cyr l’Ecole), Pontoise offers the optimal setting to experiment AutoFlight’s cutting-edge eVTOL technology.

AutoFlight’s Prosperity I fixed-wing aircraft represents a remarkable leap forward in terms of efficiency, as demonstrated by its record-breaking longest flight for an eVTOL aircraft in March 2023. AutoFlight is one of only a few eVTOL OEMs to have demonstrated the ‘transition phase’ from vertical to horizontal flight, which is heavily reliant on complex flight control systems. AutoFlight touts that the advanced engineering of the aircraft allows for significant reductions in trip length while maximizing asset utilization in urban environments, ushering in a new era of sustainable logistics and passenger transportation.

Mark Henning, Managing Director of AutoFlight Europe, said: “Through conducting experimental piloted flights from the Pontoise Vertiport, a best-in-class infrastructure operated by Groupe ADP, we aim to showcase the immense potential of Advanced Air Mobility. Our 250km-range eVTOLs will operate in real-world conditions, highlighting their capabilities in urban environments and their invaluable contribution to sustainable logistics and mobility. The 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games will be a global celebration and we would take pride in AutoFlight’s technology being part of it. We are grateful to Groupe ADP for their collaboration. “

Groupe ADP also expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. “We are delighted to be working with AutoFlight to enable experimental flights of their eVTOLs during the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games” affirmed Edward Arkwright, Deputy CEO of Groupe ADP. “Pontoise Vertiport, equipped with exceptional infrastructure and facilities, serves as an optimal platform to support electric, innovative aircraft. This collaboration resonates with our commitment to delivering sustainable and efficient aircraft infrastructure as we continue to pave the way for the future of aviation.”

This collaboration is part of a broader framework of air mobility experiments, that Groupe ADP gathered since 2020 in a unique ecosystem. It also contributes to the efforts of the Paris Region to position itself at the forefront of urban mobility. 

Why it’s important: As the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games are set to serve as a global stage for innovation and progress, AutoFlight intends to showcase the exceptional capabilities of its world-record holding 250km-range Lift & Cruise eVTOL, while Groupe ADP reinforces its commitment to fostering innovative air mobility. Sealed on Tuesday, June 20, by Tian Yu, CEO of AutoFlight, and Edward Arkwright, Deputy CEO of Groupe ADP, this collaboration aims to highlight AutoFlight’s potential in scaling up sustainable urban logistics and passenger transportation under real-world conditions.

Related: AUTOFLIGHT REVEALS INTERIOR DESIGN OF WORLD-RECORD HOLDING PROSPERITY I EVTOL

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)

Volocopter and Safran Electrical & Power announced on June 22nd at the 2023 Paris Air Show that they have signed an agreement signifying their intention to collaborate on developing a next generation powertrain for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. 

The agreement will see the two companies collaborate on the exploration of commercial and engineering partnerships, specifically focused on the entire electric powertrain, ranging from the electrical propulsion system (EPS), battery units, to power distribution system to wider engineering services.

Volocopter’s position on aerial mobility is commonly known among those in the aerial mobility industry: that eVTOLs are the next frontier of electric aviation. This emerging industry supplements existing public transportation networks in urban areas with sustainable, battery-powered aircraft offering a safe and quiet mode of transportation. The partners bring together decades of expertise in aircraft development which now is applied to the novel eVTOL and EPS space. 

Olivier Andriès, CEO of Safran, said of the announced partnership: “Volocopter is pioneering Urban Air Mobility. With a feasible design and a clear ambition to start operations as soon as next summer in Paris, we would be proud to partner with them for their future development in this highly promising new branch of the aviation industry. Safran has always kept up with the times and pushed innovation to decarbonize aviation.”

Dirk Hoke, CEO of Volocopter, added: “The prospect of collaborating with Safran, a leader in powertrain development as part of our UAM-ecosystem is exciting on several levels. Optimizing battery density and improving EPS effectiveness is the biggest performance lever for lightweight aircraft like eVTOLs. And on a personal note, it’s a stellar example of French German industry collaboration to keep European technology innovation competitive on a global level.”

Why it’s important: Volocopter and Safran will be able to leverage one another’s resources with this recent announcement which should allow for more progress on advanced electric powertrains for future eVTOL configurations. Interestingly, this landmark agreement sees Volocopter potentially outsourcing a portion of their development efforts in the hopes that their investment in collaboration with Safran and their openness of sharing their eVTOL design traits will yield an even better product in the longer run.

Plana, a South Korean electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, is making progress in the advanced air mobility (AAM) market with its innovative CP-01 hybrid-electric eVTOL aircraft. With a planned full-scale prototype unveiling in 2025 and commercial operations targeted for 2028, Plana is actively focused on increasing brand awareness, improving communication with customers and partners, and progressing with certification processes.

Designed as a six-seat aircraft, the CP-01 is intended to offer a fast, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Equipped with six tilt rotors and an aerodynamic exterior for maximum stability, the CP-01 can fly up to 500 kilometers and cruise at a speed of 300 kilometers per hour. The airframe of the aircraft utilizes composite materials. Plana envisions the HeVTOL being utilized for various purposes, including long-range air taxis and air ambulances. Its hybrid powertrain combines electric propulsion through a combination of turbine generators powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electric motors, and batteries.

In a recent development, Plana signed an agreement with SkyTaxi, a spinoff company of Japan’s Daiho Taxi Group, outlining the supply of ten CP-01 aircraft to SkyTaxi by 2030, with an additional forty units to be provided by 2040. The collaboration focuses on meeting the growing demand for efficient urban transportation solutions and highlights the potential of Plana’s eVTOL technology.

To facilitate the certification process and expand market presence, Plana is establishing locations in the United States, including Silicone Valley and Irvine, Texas. These facilities will cater to the requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and allow Plana to engage with key stakeholders in the AAM industry.

During Vice Mayor Tammy Kim’s visit to Plana’s Research and Development (R&D) Center in Icheon, South Korea, discussions were held regarding the opening of Plana’s new office in Irvine, California. Plana’s CEO, Braden J. Kim, emphasized the collaborative opportunities in policy, business development, and infrastructure with Irvine, citing the presence of prominent players like Parker Aerospace, Unical Aviation, OverAir, and Supernal in the aerospace and AAM landscape. The partnership between Plana and the city of Irvine holds promise for the future of urban air mobility.

Through technological advancements and strategic partnerships, Plana is poised to bring about a transformation in the aerial mobility sector. The CP-01 HeVTOL aircraft presents an innovative solution for urban transportation challenges, offering a sustainable, efficient, and advanced mode of travel. As Plana advances towards its goals, it aims to shape the future of the industry and usher in a new era of urban air mobility.

Why it’s important: The emergence of Plana’s CP-01 HeVTOL aircraft holds significant importance for the aerial mobility industry. This innovative aircraft represents a major step forward in the pursuit of efficient, eco-friendly, and advanced urban transportation solutions. With its hybrid-electric powertrain, impressive flying range, and cruise speed, the CP-01 showcases the potential of eVTOL technology to revolutionize the way people commute within cities and access critical services such as medical transportation. By offering a viable alternative to traditional modes of transportation, Plana’s CP-01 paves the way for reduced congestion, lower emissions, and enhanced mobility options. This development not only pushes the boundaries of technological innovation but also opens up new possibilities for urban air mobility, transforming the way we envision transportation in the future.