EHang performs first pilotless eVTOL flight in Mexico
EHang conducted the first flight of an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) pilotless aircraft in Mexico, as announced by the Chinese urban air mobility company (UAM).
The flight of the EH216-S prototype was completed after receiving a special airworthiness certificate for the unmanned aircraft system from the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC).
To grant the permit, the AFAC reviewed technical documents, conducted airworthiness inspections, approved operations manuals, crew training and licenses, and attested that Mexican safety and air operation standards would be followed.
“With its densely populated cities, vibrant tourism sector and established manufacturing industry, Mexico offers an ideal environment for the growth of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions,” said Victoria Jing Xiang, EHang's Chief Operating Officer for Europe and Latin America.
“This achievement was made possible through close coordination between AFAC Mexico, EHang and its local partner, Air Mobility. As the local partner operating the EH216-S pilotless aircraft in Mexico, Air Mobility will continue to work together with EHang to drive the growth of the AAM industry in Mexico and lay a solid foundation for future commercial eVTOL operations,” he added.
The flight was conducted at Aeródromo Albatros Residencial Aéreo, Tequesquitengo, Morelos, where Xiang called it “an ideal place for the operation of pilotless eVTOL aircraft” thanks to its proactive approach to innovation and regulation.
He added that the company's idea is to expand operations to more Latin American countries.
Finally, he discussed the strengthening of collaboration between the CAIA and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), which signed in August 2023 a memorandum of understanding for the strengthening of comprehensive cooperation.
“This agreement covers key areas such as environmental protection, safety, training and regulation of unmanned aircraft systems. Through this international partnership, Mexico is accelerating the adoption of unmanned eVTOL aircraft technology and advanced aviation solutions,” said Xiang.
“By integrating pilotless eVTOL aircraft into Mexico's airspace, EHang and its partners are helping to shape the future of urban transportation by providing safe, sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions for cities, businesses and tourists,” he concluded.
