The “eHang EH 216” became the world’s first fully certified eVTOL air cab authorized for commercial air cab work.
The model has the ability to fly on eight pairs of coaxially mounted propellers for 16 propellers in total, and autonomously transports two passengers up to 30 kilometers between loads, at a maximum speed of approximately 130 kilometers per hour.
The certificate issued is part of the Civil Aviation Authority of China’s policy of determination to achieve commercial eVTOL flights well ahead of similar projects in Europe and the United States.
Permits on Chinese Territory
According to a “New Atlas” report, the eHang 216 has type certification only in China. The US and European aviation authorities EASA are not expected to start issuing eVTOL type certificates until 2024 at the earliest, with 2025 probably more likely and 2026 a distinct possibility.
Even once they do, the eHang aircraft is unlikely to be certified in these other markets for long, as it is fully autonomous and almost all other air cabs pursuing certification will be piloted.
The type certificate (TC) does not change the operability much, as the eHang has been carrying passengers on test flights throughout China for several years.
The main thing that changes is that eHang can now charge passengers money and can begin to expand its commercial, manufacturing and travel operations.
Satisfaction at the Company
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to CAAC, the team of experts and all eHang employees for their unwavering dedication,” said eHAng founder, chairman and CEO Huazhi Hu in a press release.
“Our self-developed EH216-S passenger-carrying UAV system has finally lived up to the high expectations of securing the first TC in the global eVTOL industry, marking an important chapter in the history of civil aviation,” he noted.
The ability to start earning profits years ahead of any other competitor in the business should put eHang – and by extension, China – at a significant advantage over foreign rivals.
