As a U.S.-listed company, Ehang proudly proclaims itself as the first recipient of this certificate, granting it the authority to operate autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for passenger transportation within China. CEO Huazhi Hu expressed optimism about this achievement and its potential to set the stage for similar certifications in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia, aligning with Ehang's global expansion plans.
In a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, the United States' Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken steps to accommodate autonomous aerial vehicles, although it currently mandates the presence of onboard pilots. Ehang's achievement demonstrates China's proactive approach to regulating unmanned aircraft flights, with new rules scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2024.
Ehang is now actively considering the launch of its inaugural air taxi passenger service within a Chinese city, although specific details and dates remain undisclosed. Notably, Ehang's partnership with Xiyu Tourism involves the delivery of five EH216-S units and aims to promote low-altitude tourism while deploying a minimum of 120 Ehang vehicles over the next five years. The company has also secured over 1,200 overseas pre-orders, including commitments from notable entities such as Japan AirX, Malaysian Aerotree, and Indonesia's Prestige.
Hu envisions a future where air taxis become a common sight in cities across the globe within approximately five years. Ehang's approach involves a gradual rollout, acknowledging the early stage of development within the industry.
This certification from Ehang coincides with the Chinese government's decision to permit fully autonomous robotaxis to operate on public streets, serving as a significant step toward urban mobility. It's important to note that the key distinction between self-driving taxis and self-piloting drones is that drone flights occur between fixed points in the air, as explained by Ehang's CEO, Hu.