First Passenger-Carrying Demo Flight in UAE Conducted by EHang

Chinese urban air mobility company EHang recently achieved a significant milestone by completing the first passenger-carrying demonstration flight in the United Arab Emirates and the Middle East using its autonomous eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) craft EH216-S. In addition to this, uncrewed variants of the EHang aircraft family, including the high-rise firefighting EH126-F and aerial logistics EH126-L, also took part in demonstration flights.

Mohamed Al Dhaheri, a board member of EHang’s local strategic partner Multi Level Group, had the opportunity to experience a ride on the two-seat aircraft. Al Dhaheri expressed his excitement, stating, “Being part of this historic moment is truly exhilarating. The seamless integration of technology and aviation represents a significant leap forward for our nation, and as an Emirati, I am proud to be a part of it.”

Huazhi Hu, the founder, CEO, and Chairman of EHang, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing towards commercial flights of pilotless aircraft in the UAE. He mentioned plans to facilitate collaboration and communication between the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

EHang has been actively expanding its presence in the region, having established a strategic partnership with technology-driven freight forwarding service provider Wings Logistics Hub in December 2023. Further collaborations were secured with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Multi Level Group in April 2024.

Meanwhile, rival eVTOL developer Archer aims to offer passenger services connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai using its Midnight aircraft starting in 2025.

The successful demonstration flight by EHang signifies a major step forward in the advancement of urban air mobility in the Middle East region. Subscribe to the FINN weekly newsletter for more updates on this emerging industry.