EHang eVTOL operators secure Air Operator Certificates for urban air mobility in China

Set to expand China operations

EHang, a global leader in Urban Air Mobility (UAM) technology, has achieved a key milestone in aviation history. The company has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Guangdong EHang General Aviation (EHang General Aviation), and its Hefei-based joint venture, Hefei HeYi Aviation (HeYi Aviation), have been granted the first-ever Air Operator Certificates (OC) for civil human-carrying pilotless aerial vehicles by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

This achievement paves the way for the launch of China’s human-carrying flight era, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the low-altitude economy.

With the newly issued OCs, consumers can purchase flight tickets for low-altitude tourism, urban sightseeing, and other commercial passenger services at designated operation sites in Guangzhou and Hefei, China.

As the network expands, more services, including urban commuting, are expected to be introduced in compliance with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

The issuance of these OCs establishes a new benchmark in the emerging low-altitude economy and urban air mobility sector. This momentous development validates aerial vehicles’ viability as part of daily life and accelerates the growth and commercialisation of this innovative technology.

New standards in the eVTOL Industry

EHang has already made history by securing multiple groundbreaking certifications for its eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. The company has obtained the world’s first type certificate (TC), standard airworthiness certificate (AC), and production certificate (PC) for pilotless human-carrying eVTOL aircraft, including its flagship product, the EH216-S.

With the addition of the newly granted Air Operator Certificate, EHang has become the first company globally to receive the complete suite of regulatory certifications for its eVTOL aircraft.

This certification achievement marks a significant step in advancing low-altitude human-carrying flight services, positioning EHang as a leader in commercialising autonomous air mobility solutions. The company’s drive for regulatory compliance and innovation aims to ensure these aircraft’s safe, legal, and sustainable operation in urban environments.

Expanding low-altitude air mobility in China

EHang plans to expand its operations and infrastructure across China. The company intends to collaborate with more partners to establish additional low-altitude transportation operation centres in Chinese cities such as Guangzhou, Hefei, and beyond.

These facilities will enable local operators to apply for Air Operator Certificates for pilotless human-carrying aerial vehicles. This expansion will lead to the introduction of regular low-altitude tourism flights, urban sightseeing experiences, and a wider range of commercial flight services for the public.

As one of the leading UAM technology platforms, EHang aims to make air mobility accessible to everyone. The company provides cutting-edge aerial vehicle systems and solutions to industries ranging from human transportation and logistics to innovative city management and aerial media solutions.

The Future of UAM

EHang’s EH216-S eVTOL is at the forefront of the company’s mission to create a safer, greener, and more autonomous air mobility ecosystem. With the first-ever type certificate, production certificate, airworthiness certificate, and now the Air Operator Certificate, the EH216-S represents the future of urban transportation.

As a pioneer in the UAM industry, EHang continues to explore the possibilities of this groundbreaking technology, aiming to make air travel an integral part of life in smart cities worldwide.

With the latest regulatory approvals, EHang has set a high standard for developing low-altitude flight services, and its vision for widespread adoption of eVTOL technology is rapidly becoming a reality.

By advancing commercial operations and forming strategic partnerships, EHang is well-positioned to lead the charge in the global UAM industry, bringing new mobility and connectivity to urban environments. Image: EHang Future City at Guangzhou Suigang Port in China