EHang, the global leader in urban air mobility (UAM), has taken a major step into the future of transportation with the successful maiden flight of its pilotless eVTOL , the EH216-S, in downtown Shanghai. This flight marks the start of trial operations in the city, one of the world’s major metropolises, for the use of urban air taxis and other associated services.
This flight marks the start of test operations in the city. Source: EHang
EHang’s eVTOL and urban air mobility
EHang has been at the forefront of urban air mobility platform development, focusing its efforts on providing autonomous, eco-friendly and safe transportation solutions. The EH216-S model, one of the first pilotless eVTOLs to receive official airworthiness certifications in China, is one of the company’s key bets to revolutionize transportation in high-density cities.
This unmanned aircraft is designed to offer solutions in both passenger transport and logistics, making a significant difference in the efficiency and sustainability of urban transport. With this flight in Shanghai, EHang seeks to demonstrate the viability of urban air taxis and lay the groundwork for broader expansion within the Yangtze River Delta region.
Longhua Airport: A key hub for air mobility
Shanghai’s Longhua Airport has been established as the base for EH216-S test operations. This airport is the only one in central Shanghai with dedicated airspace for general aviation operations, making it a key hub for future air mobility initiatives.
In collaboration with Hynfar Aviation, the company intends to gradually expand test flights, offering not only passenger transportation, but also tourism services, emergency rescue and logistics.
The city of Shanghai, with its Low Altitude Economy Industry Development Action Plan (2024-2027), is positioning itself as one of the leaders in the adoption of air mobility technologies. This plan aims to create a “City in the Sky” with an air mobility market exceeding RMB 50 billion by 2027 .
The first test flights of the EH216-S are not just a proof of concept, but the start of a broader UAM ecosystem. Combining urban transport, tourism and logistics within this ecosystem will transform the way citizens of Shanghai and other Yangtze River Delta cities move around the region, reducing congestion and promoting a greener, more efficient future.
EHang continues to lead innovation in the industry and this test flight represents just the beginning of a new era in global urban mobility. With the success of the test in Shanghai, the company hopes to expand its fleet and facilitate widespread use of air taxis and other UAM applications in the near future.
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Source and photos: EHang