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News In Brief Technology and Gadgets

AutoFlight Delivers Japan's First Electric Air Taxi

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AutoFlight Delivers Japan's First Electric Air Taxi
06 Apr 2024
3 min read

News Synopsis

AutoFlight officially delivers its first Prosperity aircraft to a customer in Japan, marking the world's inaugural delivery of a civilian ton-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

The customer, an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) operator in Japan, plans to showcase the Prosperity aircraft at the 2025 Osaka World Expo and implement wider AAM initiatives in Japan.

Key Features of Prosperity Aircraft:

  • The Prosperity aircraft is a five-seater eVTOL aircraft developed by AutoFlight.
  • It represents a significant advancement in electric aviation technology, offering vertical takeoff and landing capabilities.

Type Certification Achievement for CarryAll Aircraft:

Customer Orders and Market Demand:

  • AutoFlight receives orders for over 200 CarryAll aircraft, indicating strong market demand for its products.
  • Notable orders include 30 units for ZTO Express, one of the world's largest logistics companies.

Significance of Type Certification for CarryAll Aircraft:

  • Type certification ensures compliance with airworthiness standards, essential for commercial operations.
  • The rigorous certification process involved various aspects, including performance control, stability, structural strength, battery system, and flight performance.

Inter-City Electric Air Taxi Demonstration Flight:

  • In February 2024, AutoFlight conducts the world's first inter-city electric air taxi demonstration flight between Shenzhen and Zhuhai in China.
  • The Prosperity aircraft autonomously completes the 50km route in 20 minutes, showcasing its efficiency and potential for urban air mobility.

Future Air Traffic Scenario in China:

  • The Shenzhen-Zhuhai route is part of the regional government's 'low-altitude economy' strategy in the Greater Bay Area.
  • AutoFlight's demonstration flight highlights its advanced aviation technology and commitment to safety and regulatory compliance in urban air mobility.

Implications for Urban Air Mobility and Aviation Industry:

  • AutoFlight's achievements signify a significant milestone in the development of electric aviation technology and urban air mobility.
  • The company's dedication to innovation and safety has the potential to reshape the future of air transportation and address urban mobility challenges.