Aerofugia (China)
Aerofugia, a subsidiary of Geely Technology Group, was established in 2020, evolving from its predecessor, Terrafugia, after being acquired by China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. Specializing in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Aerofugia’s focus encompasses innovative low-altitude travel solutions, including notable projects like the TF-2 and AE200 X01. The company has made significant strides in eVTOL development, characterized by a transition from traditional tiltrotor to “lift and cruise” designs. Key collaborations, particularly with Volocopter, and substantial financial backing highlight Aerofugia’s commitment to shaping the future of urban air mobility.
AIR (Israel)
AIR, an Israeli startup, is at the forefront of the air taxi industry with its innovative AIR ONE aircraft. Designed for personal use, AIR ONE distinguishes itself with an “easy-to-operate” model, catering to consumers rather than commercial flight markets. The two-seater eVTOL, known for its impressive range and lightweight design, embodies a unique blend of advanced technology and user-friendly features. Key to its appeal is the “fly by intent” software, allowing operation without extensive pilot training. AIR’s commitment to safety is evident in its robust, fail-safe flight control system. With seed funding secured for development, the company is rapidly progressing towards mass production.
Airbus SE (Netherlands)
Airbus SE, established in 1970 as a European consortium, quickly rose to prominence in the aerospace industry with its innovative approach to commercial aviation. Initially focusing on commercial airliners, Airbus expanded its expertise into the defense and space sectors, forming the Airbus Defence and Space division, responsible for significant projects like the Eurofighter Typhoon and Ariane launch vehicles. More recently, Airbus has ventured into the burgeoning air taxi market, developing prototypes like CityAirbus and Vahana, aligning with global sustainability trends. Holding a strong position in commercial aviation and defense, Airbus continues to innovate, particularly in sustainable aviation technologies. The company is actively working towards environmental goals, including the development of a zero-emission commercial aircraft by 2035.
Airspace Experience Technologies (USA)
Airspace Experience Technologies (ASX), founded in 2017 by Jon Rimanelli, is a Detroit-based innovator in the field of tilt-wing eVTOL aircraft. The company’s flagship product, the Sigma-6, serves various sectors including defense, emergency response, cargo, and passenger transport. Operating from Coleman A. Young International Airport, ASX is committed to leveraging automotive electric vehicle technologies for the mass production of the Sigma-6. Despite facing financial challenges, with a reported revenue of $106.3K in 2022 and a quest for additional funding, ASX has established significant partnerships and agreements, including a letter of intent with the U.S. Department of the Navy and a Phase 3 contract with the U.S. Air Force.
Alaka’i (USA)
Founded in 2006, Alaka’i Technologies is a pioneer in air mobility, focusing on sustainable and safe transportation solutions. Their flagship product, Skai, is a hydrogen fuel-cell powered eVTOL aircraft, emphasizing zero emissions, safety, and versatility. The company, driven by a team of aerospace experts, aims to lead in innovative aviation technologies while respecting environmental integrity.
Archer Aviation (USA)
Archer Aviation, founded by Brett Adcock and Adam Goldstein, is a pioneering eVTOL aircraft developer focused on urban air mobility, particularly air taxi services. With its first demonstrator aircraft, Maker, and its production vehicle, Midnight, Archer Aviation is geared towards short-range urban transport. The company has established significant partnerships, including with United Airlines and Stellantis, to bolster its technological and manufacturing capabilities. Poised for its aerial ridesharing service launch in cities like Miami and Los Angeles by 2025, Archer’s strong financial standing, including substantial investments and liquidity, positions it as a key player in the evolving eVTOL landscape.
Ascendance Flight (France)
Ascendance Flight, established in 2015, is a pioneering force in the air taxi industry. With a mission to revolutionize urban transportation, the company introduced its first major eVTOL model, the AFX-1, showcasing innovative features like electric propulsion and advanced safety systems. Rapid expansion followed, marked by significant funding, key technology partnerships, and a growing fleet, including the improved AFX-2 model. Today, Ascendance Flight operates over 100 eVTOLs globally, boasting a strong track record in safety and customer satisfaction. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its carbon-neutral operations and continuous efficiency improvements. Looking ahead, Ascendance Flight aims to integrate its services with existing public transport systems, while expanding its market presence and fleet with upcoming models like the AFX-3, ensuring its continued leadership in the evolving urban mobility landscape.
Aurora Flight Sciences (USA)
Aurora Flight Sciences, founded in 1989 by Dr. John Langford, is a leading company in the eVTOL air taxi industry. Originating with a focus on autonomous flight and unmanned aerial vehicles, Aurora has evolved significantly over the years. Its transition into the eVTOL sector reflects a commitment to sustainable and innovative air travel solutions. The acquisition by Boeing in 2017 marked a pivotal moment, enhancing Aurora’s research capabilities and global influence. Today, the company is renowned for its advancements in electric propulsion and autonomous flight systems, notably in projects like the Passenger Air Vehicle (PAV). With a positive public perception and a strategy centered on continuous innovation and safety, Aurora Flight Sciences stands at the forefront of transforming urban air mobility. Its partnership with Boeing and proactive involvement in regulatory processes underscore its potential to significantly impact the future of the air taxi industry.
AutoFlight (China)
AutoFlight, founded in 2017 by Tian Yu in Shanghai, is a pioneering company in the electric aerial vehicle sector, focusing on the development and manufacturing of eVTOL aircraft. The company made significant strides with its eVTOL cargo drones, V50 White Shark and V400 Albatross, laying the groundwork for its flagship passenger eVTOL, the Prosperity I. AutoFlight stands out for its cost-efficient production methods, leveraging the competitive electric vehicle supply chain in Shanghai.
Beta Technologies (USA)
Beta Technologies, established in Burlington, Vermont by Kyle Clark in 2017, has swiftly ascended in the electric aircraft industry since its inception. The company first gained prominence with a significant contract from United Therapeutics for organ transport. Beta’s pioneering eVTOL aircraft, the Ava XC, laid the groundwork for its notable ALIA-250 model, attracting interest from entities like UPS and Blade Urban Air Mobility. Collaborating with the U.S. military, Beta Technologies has expanded into military applications while advancing eVTOL technology. Financially robust, with substantial venture capital funding, the company is poised for growth, underscored by the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Vermont, aiming for increased production and FAA certification.
Doroni Aerospace (USA)
Doroni Aerospace, co-founded by Doron Merdinger and Roman Antonov, specializes in eVTOL technology. The company’s flagship product, the Doroni H1, is a two-seater eVTOL designed for personal transportation and light freight operations. It features an innovative all-electric design with a range of 60 miles, a cruise speed of 100 mph, and a top speed of 140 mph. Doroni has successfully raised significant funds, including over $3.5 million from investors and $500,000 through crowdfunding. The company aims to produce 22 H1 units in its first year of production, with a plan to increase this number significantly in subsequent years. Doroni Aerospace has received backing from various organizations and agencies, reinforcing its position as a significant player in the burgeoning field of urban air mobility.
EHang (China)
Guangzhou EHang Intelligent Technology Co. Ltd, based in Guangzhou, China, is a leader in developing and manufacturing autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs) and passenger AAVs. The company has made significant strides in the field with products like the EHang 184, the world’s first AAV capable of carrying passengers, and the EH216 series. EHang’s innovative efforts extend to international collaborations, regulatory milestones, and a NASDAQ listing under the symbol EH. Despite facing industry challenges like safety regulations and consumer adoption, EHang’s financial performance indicates substantial growth and expansion in urban air mobility, with a diverse portfolio that includes unmanned eVTOLs and aerial photography drones.
Electra (USA)
Electra was established in early 2020 by unmanned aircraft pioneer John Langford, and is at the forefront of developing hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft. With its innovative design featuring electric and conventional propulsion, Electra’s aircraft are tailored for a variety of applications including air taxis, freight delivery, and logistics. The company has fostered significant partnerships, notably with Aerion and Skyportz, and secured substantial funding, including a Strategic Funding Increase from the U.S. Air Force AFWERX. Electra’s focus on advanced air mobility is evident in its recent successful test flights and ambitious plans for a nine-passenger eSTOL aircraft, targeting FAA certification by 2028.
Eve Air Mobility (Brazil)
Eve Air Mobility, a subsidiary of aerospace leader Embraer, is a trailblazer in the eVTOL aircraft and urban air mobility infrastructure sector. Originating from Embraer’s innovation arm, EmbraerX, Eve was established with the vision of revolutionizing urban air mobility. Headquartered in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil, the company focuses on developing innovative eVTOL solutions, aiming to introduce electric air transportation in urban environments. Alongside technological advancements, Eve has forged strategic partnerships to expand its global footprint.
Hi-Lite Aircraft (USA) (dissolved)
Hi-Lite Aircraft LLC was an aerospace innovations company based in Michigan, specialized in developing high-speed air taxi aircraft, with a focus on ultra-efficient hybrid electric propulsion systems. Their flagship product line, the Lynx-us, catered to both civilian and military applications, showcasing versatility and safety in high-speed aircraft design. The company’s product range included models like the Leap, Leap EMS, and the Patriot series, all designed to achieve speeds of 280 knots with varying passenger capacities and ranges. Hi-Lite Aircraft was known for its pioneering patents in VTOL technology, including innovative propulsion systems and lift mechanisms. Despite its significant contributions to VTOL aircraft development, Hi-Lite Aircraft LLC was recorded as inactive in 2023, indicating a closure of its operations.
HopFlyt (USA)
HopFlyt was founded in 2017 by Rob and Lucille Winston. Its flagship project, the Venturi, includes a unique design incorporating the Custer Channel Wing for enhanced lift and control. The company, initially based in Maryland, recently moved its operations to Paducah, Kentucky, to leverage the local talent and supportive business environment. Alongside the Venturi, HopFlyt has also developed the Squall and the Cyclone, expanding its reach in the Advanced Aerial Mobility market.
Jaunt Air Mobility (USA)
Jaunt Air Mobility, established in early 2019 by Kaydon Stanzione and Martin Peryea, rapidly evolved into a key player in the eVTOL aircraft market. Known for its flagship eVTOL aircraft, the Jaunt Journey, the company offers innovative air mobility solutions with a range of aircraft including passenger, medical, military, and cargo variants. With strategic partnerships and significant advancements in hybrid-electric technology, Jaunt aims to revolutionize air travel. The company’s approach combines rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft features, emphasizing efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Jetson (USA)
Jetson was co-founded by Peter Ternström and Tomasz Patan in 2017, and embarked on a mission to democratize personal flight with the motto “making everyone a pilot.” The company’s signature product, the Jetson One, is a testament to this vision. A lightweight eVTOL vehicle, it stands out for its ease of operation, enabled by advanced software systems including Lidar sensors and auto-landing features. Initially focused on crafting a rudimentary but functional prototype, Jetson’s commitment to accessible aerial mobility led to a sophisticated product that caters to enthusiasts and novices alike. While navigating regulatory complexities, particularly in the EU, Jetson continues to innovate, planning future models including a two-seater and a potential family car replacement.
Joby Aviation (USA)
Joby Aviation, founded by JoeBen Bevirt, has emerged as a pioneering force in the air taxi industry. Originating from a small team focused on developing key eVTOL technologies, the company has achieved significant milestones in flight technology. Its strategic partnerships, notably with NASA and Toyota, have propelled its technological advancements. The company’s transition to a public entity has enhanced its financial and operational capabilities, marking a shift towards production scalability.
Kittyhawk (USA) (dissolved)
Kittyhawk, initially known as Zee.Aero, was founded in 2010 with support from Google co-founder Larry Page. The Silicon Valley-based company focused on developing eVTOL aircraft, primarily targeting urban air mobility. Their notable projects included the Kitty Hawk Flyer, an ultralight all-electric aircraft, and the Cora, an autonomous air taxi prototype. They also developed the quieter Heaviside aircraft. Despite pioneering efforts in the eVTOL sector and ambitions to make air taxis cost-effective, Kittyhawk ceased operations in 2022, marking a significant chapter in the development of urban air mobility. Their legacy continues through the Wisk Aero joint venture with Boeing.
LIFT Aircraft (USA)
LIFT Aircraft, established by uShip founder Matt Chasen and former FLIKE team members, is an innovative player in the eVTOL industry. The company’s flagship product, HEXA, is a single-seat, unwinged multicopter designed for personal use, aligning with FAA’s Part 103 rules for ultralight aircraft. This design allows operation without a pilot’s license. LIFT differentiates itself by focusing on operating vertiports for experiential flight services, primarily for recreational flights. With significant advancements in eVTOL technology and collaborations with the U.S. Air Force, LIFT has made notable strides in demonstrating the practical and recreational potential of personal flight.
Lilium GmbH (Germany)
Lilium is a German aerospace company founded in 2015 by four engineers and PhD students from the Technical University of Munich. They specialize in the development of electric personal air vehicles. Central to its portfolio is the Lilium Jet, a groundbreaking air taxi aircraft. Designed to achieve a top speed of 300 km/h and a range of 300 km, the Lilium Jet symbolizes the company’s commitment to revolutionizing air mobility. Facing both skepticism and developmental challenges, Lilium has nevertheless made significant strides in technology, design, and global partnerships. The company’s journey is marked by key milestones in certification, production, and strategic alliances, positioning it as a formidable player in the burgeoning eVTOL air taxi market.
Moog (USA)
Moog Inc., established in 1950 by Bill Moog, is a prominent American company specializing in the design and manufacturing of electric, electro-hydraulic, and hydraulic motion controls and systems. The company’s expertise spans aerospace, defense, industrial, and medical devices, contributing significantly to various aerospace projects, defense technologies, and medical equipment. Moog’s notable foray into the eVTOL market, marked by the acquisition of the SureFly aircraft, highlights its commitment to advancing in electric aircraft technology.
Odys Aviation (USA)
Odys Aviation, originally known as Craft Aerospace Technologies, is a pioneering firm in the hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft sector. Founded in Long Beach, California, the company excels in designing innovative aircraft for commercial, private, and cargo aviation. Their flagship model, a nine-passenger VTOL, features a unique “blown wing” design, accommodating efficient vertical takeoff and landing. With a focus on sustainable air travel, Odys Aviation’s aircraft can cover distances up to 1,000 miles. The company has established significant partnerships, including with the UAE’s NextGen FDI program, and has attracted substantial investment, fueling its ambitious plans to revolutionize regional air travel.
Overair (USA)
Overair, an innovative air mobility company, is developing the Butterfly, an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. Originating from Karem Aircraft in 2020, Overair leverages extensive aerospace experience from co-founders Abe Karem and Ben Tigner. The Butterfly, designed to transform urban and regional transportation, features unique technologies like oversized rotors, Optimum Speed Tilt Rotors (OSTRs), and Individual Blade Control (IBC), aiming for efficiency, safety, and low noise levels. With its headquarters in Santa Ana, California, and a flight test facility in Victorville, Overair is progressing towards flight testing and commercial deployment, attracting interest from both commercial and military sectors.
Piasecki Aircraft (USA)
Piasecki Aircraft Corporation, established by vertical flight pioneer Frank Piasecki in 1955, is a leader in the development of advanced rotorcraft and compound helicopters. Headquartered in Essington, Pennsylvania, and now steered by Frank’s sons, the company continues its legacy of innovation in the aerospace sector. Piasecki Aircraft has been involved in significant projects, including the development of the X-49 experimental compound helicopter for the U.S. Navy and the Air Scout Unmanned Air System. More recently, the company has focused on pioneering electric-powered helicopters like the PA-890, emphasizing lower operating costs, reduced noise, and zero emissions. Their ongoing work with hydrogen fuel cell technology, especially through strategic partnerships and U.S. Air Force-funded programs, positions them at the forefront of sustainable aviation technology. The company’s expansion into new facilities and its recognition in academic research circles underscore its commitment to evolving aerospace technologies.
Skyways (USA)
Skyways, headquartered in Austin, Texas, is a pioneering company in autonomous cargo aircraft development, focusing on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs). Founded to address traffic congestion challenges, Skyways has raised $16.1 million to develop its unique eVTOL drones. These aircraft, notable for their hybrid design combining electric motors and an internal combustion engine, are capable of fully autonomous operations. Skyways initially targeted the US Navy and is now expanding into other sectors. Key to its innovation is advanced software with computer vision for autonomous navigation. Strategic partnerships, particularly with Moonware, are enhancing Skyways’ ground infrastructure and vertiport capabilities, positioning the company as a significant player in the future of air mobility.
Supernal (USA)
Supernal, a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, specializes in eVTOL aircraft, aiming to revolutionize urban air mobility with a focus on zero-carbon, electric air vehicles. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the company has strategically positioned research and development in Silicon Valley and engineering in Irvine, California. Supernal’s mission is to seamlessly integrate advanced air mobility into existing transportation networks, emphasizing safety, customer needs, and ground-to-air connectivity. The company’s approach extends beyond aircraft manufacturing, envisioning a comprehensive multi-modal transport ecosystem.
Textron eAviation (USA)
Textron eAviation, a division of Textron Inc., headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, specializes in sustainable aviation solutions, notably the development of the Nexus eVTOL aircraft. With a focus on hybrid-electric technology, the division aims to innovate in the air taxi and emergency medical transport sectors. Its acquisition of Pipistrel, a leader in electric aircraft, underscores its commitment to sustainable flight. Led by Kriya Shortt, Textron eAviation capitalizes on the extensive aerospace and defense expertise of Textron, harnessing its various capabilities to advance in the evolving field of electric aircraft and sustainable aviation technologies.
Urban Aeronautics (Israel)
Urban Aeronautics, founded in 2001, is a pioneering force in the air taxi sector. Their mainstay, the Fancraft CityHawk, caters to diverse roles including emergency response and executive transportation. This innovative model, along with the larger Falcon XP, showcases the company’s patented Fancraft counter-rotating ducted fans, distinguishing itself with a wingless, rotorless design. Urban Aeronautics is advancing towards eco-friendly aviation with a hydrogen-powered variant of the CityHawk, targeting production readiness by 2028. Strategic partnerships have been instrumental in their progress, notably with Hatzolah Air for air ambulance services and various tech providers for advanced flight systems. With significant funding and global expansion plans, especially in the UAE, Urban Aeronautics is shaping the future of urban air mobility, exploring both passenger transport and cargo operations.
VerdeGo Aero (USA)
VerdeGo Aero, established in 2017 by three experts in hybrid-electric and battery-electric aircraft, is at the forefront of developing hybrid-electric propulsion technologies for aviation. The company’s core innovation lies in integrating electric motors with hybrid powerplants that use liquid fuels, offering an efficient and sustainable alternative to conventional propulsion methods. Noteworthy developments include the SR-305-VDG aircraft engine and the VH series of hybrid powerplants. VerdeGo Aero has strategic partnerships with industry leaders like XTI Aircraft and Jaunt Air Mobility, and significant financial backing from investors such as RTX Ventures and DiamondStream Partners.
Vertical Aerospace (UK)
Vertical Aerospace was founded in 2016 by Stephen Fitzpatrick, and is a UK-based eVTOL manufacturer. Initially introducing the VA-X1, a quadcopter prototype, the company has significantly evolved, focusing on the development of the VX4, a piloted, zero-emissions vehicle aimed at revolutionizing urban air mobility. Through strategic partnerships with major aerospace and technology companies, Vertical Aerospace has made notable strides towards achieving its vision.
Volador FlyTech (UK)
Founded in 2020, Volador FlyTech specializes in the development of eVTOL vehicles and advanced battery systems. The company is led by a team with deep expertise in aerospace and business management. Volador FlyTech’s mission is to revolutionize urban air mobility, focusing on reducing emissions and urban congestion through their state-of-the-art technology. Their achievements include a successful eVTOL vehicle Proof of Concept, and they are planning a commercial launch in the near future. The company has also gained recognition for its visionary approach to sustainable transportation solutions.
Volocopter (Germany)
Volocopter GmbH, originally E-Volo GmbH, is a German company specializing in the development of electric multirotor helicopters for air taxi services. Founded by Alexander Zosel and Stephan Wolf in Bruchsal, Germany, the company has positioned itself as a leader in urban air mobility (UAM). Volocopter’s portfolio includes the pioneering VoloCity air taxi and other innovative eVTOL models like VoloConnect and VoloDrone. The company has made significant strides in technological advancements and global partnerships, aiming to revolutionize urban transportation with sustainable, electrically-powered air vehicles. With a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and environmental friendliness, Volocopter is at the forefront of the emerging air taxi industry.
VoltAero (France)
VoltAero, established in Royan, France, emerged as an innovator in hybrid-electric aviation technology. Founded with a background in the Airbus E-Fan project, the company focused on developing the Cassio family of aircraft, designed for a variety of applications including cargo, air taxi, and medevac services. Featuring models like Cassio 330, Cassio 480, and Cassio 600, these aircraft are distinguished by their efficient hybrid-electric propulsion systems and design compliance with EASA CS-23 regulations. VoltAero has formed strategic partnerships with companies like Kawasaki Motors and Akira Technologies, bolstering its technological advancements and market position.
Whisper Aero (USA)
Whisper Aero, co-founded by pioneers from NASA and Uber Elevate, specializes in developing advanced electric propulsion technologies for aviation. The company’s mission is to revolutionize air travel with quieter, more efficient propulsion systems. Their key innovation, the Whisper Jet, is an aircraft concept showcasing their ultraquiet propulsion system, suitable for regional flights. Whisper Aero’s breakthroughs include a unique electric ducted fan design that significantly reduces noise and improves efficiency. The company, primarily focused on defense applications, is expanding into civil aviation and other industries. With a substantial Series A funding, Whisper Aero is poised to impact both defense and commercial sectors with its groundbreaking technologies.
Wisk Aero (USA)
Wisk Aero, an innovative aerospace manufacturer, was established in 2019 through a strategic partnership between Boeing and Larry Page’s Kitty Hawk. Based in Mountain View, California, Wisk Aero has rapidly advanced in the field of autonomous electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, primarily designed for air taxi services. The company’s flagship model, Wisk Cora, exemplifies its commitment to revolutionizing urban air mobility with self-piloted, environmentally friendly solutions. Wisk Aero’s recent efforts focus on integrating these autonomous aircraft into the urban landscape, gearing up for the commercial introduction of their advanced eVTOL models.
XTI Aircraft (USA)
XTI Aircraft, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, is a cleantech aviation company renowned for developing the TriFan 600, a hybrid-electric, long-range vertical takeoff and landing airplane. This innovative aircraft, designed to combine the efficiency of fixed-wing airplanes with the convenience of VTOL capabilities, caters to both business and leisure travel, offering significant time savings over conventional aircraft. XTI Aircraft has distinguished itself in the aviation industry through its commitment to sustainability, focusing on using sustainable aviation fuels to significantly reduce CO2 emissions. The company’s forward-thinking approach has garnered substantial market interest, with over 700 conditional pre-orders for the TriFan 600, indicating strong potential for future growth and impact in the air travel sector.
YEET Aerospace (UK)
Yeet Aerospace Ltd, based in York, North Yorkshire, is an innovative player in the eVTOL and drone industry, founded in early 2022. Their flagship product, the Plane-O-Copter, is a groundbreaking aircraft that blends the capabilities of a fixed-wing aircraft and a helicopter, offering enhanced speed, range, and endurance. This emissionless, battery-electric vehicle is designed for various applications, including emergency response, surveillance, and potentially personal transportation. Under the leadership of founder Alasdair Aegerter, a veteran of the aerospace industry, Yeet Aerospace is poised to make significant contributions to eco-friendly aviation and technological innovation in aerial transportation.
ZEVA Aero (USA)
ZEVA Aero is an innovative aviation company founded by Stephen Tibbitts. The company was established with a mission to revolutionize personal and mission-critical transportation. Initially exploring a unique flying saucer design, ZEVA Aero has since pivoted to develop Argon, a more conventional aircraft integrating vertical-lift capabilities. Focused on producing vehicles for a range of customers including emergency responders and aviation enthusiasts, ZEVA Aero has funded its ventures through a blend of founder investments, equity crowdfunding, and grants. The company is eyeing a potential IPO around 2025, demonstrating its ambition and growth trajectory in the eVTOL industry.