Ehang revolutionizes air transport with certified eVTOL in China
- Ehang received certification from China's aviation regulator in late March 2025.
- The company plans to begin operating its certified eVTOL aircraft for tourists by the end of June.
- Industry analysts predict strong market growth for Ehang due to supportive national policies and anticipated demand.
In late March 2025, Ehang, a U.S.-listed company, achieved a significant milestone by obtaining certification from the Civil Aviation Administration of China to operate passenger-carrying eVTOL aircraft. This certification positions Ehang as a pioneer in the burgeoning sector of pilotless air travel. The company's certified aircraft, known as the 216-S, is designed to carry two passengers and operates using electric power for vertical take-off and landing, similar to helicopters. Ehang plans to commence operations by the end of June 2025, specifically targeting tourist routes across designated areas in China. Industry analysts at Bank of America have expressed strong confidence in Ehang's market dominance, projecting that the company could maintain 100% market share in China through 2025-2027 due to rigorous airworthiness regulations that pose a barrier to new competitors. Their analysis indicates a strategic advantage stemming from national policy support, coupled with accelerated delivery timelines to tourism customers. Further supporting Ehang's growth is the anticipated demand for eVTOLs in tourist attractions, with estimates suggesting that each location may acquire five to ten units. The combined potential market in China is estimated to approach 80,000 units. Bank of America analysts predict a rapid escalation in Ehang's delivery volumes from 442 units in 2025, expanding to 813 units in the following year—translating into robust revenue growth. Additionally, forecasts anticipate a significant long-term opportunity in the urban air taxi market, which could yield up to 200,000 units of demand in the future. However, analysts caution that significant incidents could pose risks to the pace of eVTOL adoption. The contrast between the swift developments in China's eVTOL market and the slower process of certification rules in the United States highlights the differing regulatory landscapes affecting the advancement of pilotless aircraft. As companies race to tap into this innovative mode of transportation, Ehang's successful certification marks a critical step forward in redefining urban air mobility and tourist travel in China.