October 1, 2024

September 2024 eVTOL Industry Developments: A Comprehensive Report

Lilium's U.S. Debut and Bavarian Support

Lilium made significant strides this month with the U.S. debut of the Lilium Jet at Houston Hobby Airport (eVTOL Insights). Partnering with Galaxy FBO, Lilium aims to enhance eVTOL accessibility in the Houston area by improving infrastructure at key facilities. With an anticipated operating range of 110 miles, the company envisions revolutionary regional routes such as Hobby to Galveston.

In addition, Lilium received a substantial boost from the Bavarian government. The state approved a €100 million guarantee to support Lilium's continued operations in Munich. This move underscores Bavaria's commitment to fostering innovation in advanced air mobility and securing its position as a hub for aerospace development.

Progress in eVTOL Test Flights and Certifications

September saw remarkable achievements in eVTOL testing and certification efforts:

• Archer Aviation surpassed its goal by completing 402 test flights of its Midnight eVTOL prototype, four months ahead of schedule. This accomplishment marks a significant step toward FAA for-credit flight testing.

• Vertical Aerospace completed the first phase of piloted flight tests for its VX4 eVTOL aircraft. The phase involved 20 tethered flight sorties, validating safety and performance parameters. The company is now preparing for the next phase, focusing on thrustborne flight.

• EHang achieved a milestone with its EH216-S pilotless eVTOL aircraft. The aircraft completed its inaugural flight in Brazil's São Paulo region and secured an Experimental Flight Authorization Certificate from Brazil's National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). These developments position EHang to expand its urban air mobility operations globally.

• Joby Aviation initiated the process to secure an Air Operator Certificate from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. This move aims to establish Joby as the first certified electric air taxi operator in the Middle East, with plans to commence commercial services by 2026.

Strategic Partnerships and Technological Collaborations

The eVTOL industry witnessed several key partnerships aimed at advancing technology and infrastructure:

• AutoFlight entered a strategic agreement with Dassault Systèmes (Vertical Mag) to develop an integrated eVTOL product development platform using the 3DEXPERIENCE software. This collaboration focuses on end-to-end digital development in the eVTOL sector.

• Qdot Technology partnered with H3 Dynamics to integrate hydrogen fuel cell systems into Qdot's zero-emission, uncrewed VTOL cargo aircraft (AINonline). Designed for a 440-pound payload with an operational range between 250 and 600 kilometers, this initiative represents a significant step toward sustainable air cargo solutions.

• Fiji Airways signed an Expression of Interest with Odys Aviation to utilize the Laila hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft for cargo routes connecting Fiji's 330 islands. Pilot programs are set to begin in 2025, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting logistics and NGO operations.

Infrastructure Investments and Urban Air Mobility Initiatives

Significant investments were announced to support the development of eVTOL infrastructure:

• Oklahoma unveiled an advanced air mobility (AAM) strategy, predicting around USD 35 million in vertiport infrastructure investments (Urban Air Mobility News) and an additional USD 5 million for radar equipment in 2025. The plan aims to enhance hospital services, search-and-rescue operations, and law enforcement capabilities using eVTOL technology, particularly benefiting rural areas.

• Beta Technologies expanded its electric aviation charging network throughout Florida (eVTOL Insights). Partnering with several airports, including Tallahassee International and Gainesville Regional, Beta is installing electric aircraft and vehicle charging infrastructure to prepare for the emerging electric aviation industry.

• Seoul's city government initiated a KRW 2.96 trillion redevelopment project (Urban Air Mobility News) to transform Gimpo International Airport into a major urban air mobility (UAM) hub by 2030. The project includes the construction of a UAM take-off and landing site as part of a complex transfer facility.

• Brisbane announced plans to integrate eVTOL air taxi services in time for the 2032 Olympic Games. The initiative aims to leverage the city's riverside vertistops to showcase advanced transport solutions and enhance urban mobility during the international event.

Leadership Changes and Appointments

Several key leadership changes occurred in the industry:

• Eve Air Mobility appointed Megha Bhatia as Chief Commercial Officer. Bhatia brings extensive experience from her previous roles at Jet Support Services and Rolls-Royce, and will oversee global sales, market intelligence, and government relations.

• Volocopter announced that CEO Dirk Hoke will step down (FlightGlobal) at the end of February 2025. Simultaneously, former Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche was appointed as the chairman of Volocopter’s Advisory Board, signaling a strategic shift in leadership.

• Dan Sloat was appointed President of Electro.Aero, tasked with overseeing the company's strategic expansion, enhancing team culture, and establishing a U.S. head office.

Technological Advancements and Innovations

Advancements in eVTOL technology continued to emerge:

• NASA confirmed (The Air Current) that urban air mobility vehicles, including eVTOL airport shuttles, can operate effectively with existing air traffic management systems. This finding eliminates the need for new air traffic management constructs and could accelerate the integration of eVTOLs into urban transportation frameworks.

• Hyundai's Supernal detailed its strategy for entering the eVTOL air taxi market, outlining operational, technological, and regulatory steps required to advance its vision in urban air mobility. Read more (AINonline).

• Horizon Aircraft progressed with the full-scale development of its hybrid-powered Cavorite X7 eVTOL. The company plans a full transition of a large-scale prototype by the end of 2024.

Upcoming Events Shaping the eVTOL Landscape

Industry events continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of eVTOL:

• The London EV Show, scheduled for November 26-28 at ExCeL London, will include key discussions on Advanced Air Mobility. Industry experts and policymakers are set to converge, with eVTOL Insights moderating significant panels. Details here (eVTOL Insights).

• The Vertical Flight Society announced its 8th AAM Infrastructure Workshop (eVTOL Insights). The event will gather industry leaders to discuss developments and challenges in eVTOL vertiport infrastructure.

As the eVTOL industry continues to evolve, September 2024 has been a month of significant milestones, strategic partnerships, and forward-thinking initiatives. From groundbreaking test flights and certifications to substantial infrastructure investments and leadership changes, the sector is rapidly progressing toward commercial viability and integration into global transportation networks.