In a major achievement for the Japanese electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) industry, Japan-based SkyDrive Inc. announced on February 10, 2025, that the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) had issued a G-1 certification basis for its flagship eVTOL aircraft. This pivotal achievement represents a crucial step in SkyDrive's journey toward full aircraft certification and commercial operations, positioning the company at the forefront of Japan's emerging urban air mobility sector.
Latest News, Trends Updates. eVTOL
Chinese startup Fengfei, known as AutoFlight in the West, has secured a production certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) for its V2000CG Carry-All autonomous cargo aircraft. This certification, awarded on December 24, 2024, marks the world’s first production approval for an eVTOL exceeding 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs), with the aircraft’s gross weight capped at 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs). With this certification, AutoFlight is set to accelerate mass production, secure individual aircraft certifications, and enhance deliveries and after-sales services, further advancing its position in the eVTOL industry.
EHang Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: EH), a global pioneer in autonomous aerial vehicle (AAV) technology, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Wencheng County in Zhejiang Province, China. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in developing China's low-altitude economy and urban air mobility (UAM) sector. With this agreement, Wencheng County joins other pioneering regions in China, such as Guangdong province and Beijing, in embracing eVTOL technology. Together, these forward-thinking initiatives are positioning China at the forefront of eVTOL technology adoption and implementation.