Technology & Innovation
EHang Jingyue Partnership Advances China Low-Altitude Economy
EHang collaborates with Jingyue High-Tech Zone to deploy 41 autonomous eVTOLs in Changchun, targeting tourism, emergency services, and urban traffic solutions.
Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is no longer a futuristic concept; it is rapidly becoming a tangible solution to urban congestion, emergency response, and tourism enhancement. One of the most compelling developments in this space is the recent strategic cooperation between EHang Holdings Limited and the Jingyue High-Tech Industrial Development Zone in Changchun, Jilin Province. Announced in June 2025, this partnership marks a significant milestone in the commercialization of autonomous aerial vehicles in China and globally.
This collaboration involves the deployment of 41 EH216-S pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and the establishment of a provincial-level demonstration zone for low-altitude economic development. With Changchun’s ambition to become a regional leader in this emerging sector, the partnership sets the stage for a holistic integration of industrial innovation, regulatory frameworks, and real-world application scenarios.
The cornerstone of the agreement is the procurement of 41 EH216-S pilotless eVTOLs by Jilin Aerospace Industry Development Investment Co., Ltd. These aircraft are not just technological showcases, they are functional tools set to be deployed in three critical domains: low-altitude sightseeing, urban emergency response, and city traffic management.
Changchun’s “Action Plan for Promoting High-Quality Development of the Low-Altitude Economy (2024–2026)” outlines ambitious goals, including achieving RMB3 billion ($410 million USD) in economic output by 2026. The EH216-S units will play a central role in realizing this vision by enabling practical, scalable use cases that integrate with the city’s broader development strategy.
Jingyue Hi-Tech Zone, the hub of this initiative, is already equipped with a robust digital infrastructure spanning Northeast China. This includes airspace management systems, low-altitude digital coding, satellite communications, and regional computing power nodes, laying the groundwork for efficient command and dispatch of autonomous aircraft.
“This partnership sets a new benchmark for integrating UAM into urban ecosystems, combining regulatory foresight, technological readiness, and economic ambition.”, Industry Analyst, Urban Mobility Forum The 41 EH216-S aircraft will serve diverse operational roles. In tourism, they will offer aerial sightseeing over iconic destinations like Jingyuetan National Forest Park and Changying Century City. These 5A-rated attractions make the Jingyue Hi-Tech Zone an ideal testbed for the “low-altitude + tourism” model, enhancing visitor experiences while reducing ground traffic congestion.
For urban emergency response, the EH216-S and its firefighting variant, the 216F, will be deployed for rapid intervention in fire incidents and medical supply deliveries. The 216F model includes a 150-liter extinguishing payload, making it suitable for high-rise fire scenarios where traditional vehicles face limitations.
In terms of city traffic management, the aircraft will provide real-time aerial monitoring of road networks. This data will feed into the city’s traffic control systems, enabling faster incident response and more efficient traffic flow management. Jingyue Hi-Tech Zone is more than just a deployment site; it is evolving into a comprehensive aerospace innovation ecosystem. The zone is developing an “Integrated Aerospace Triad” that includes a low-altitude smart connectivity test site for extreme cold climates, an aerospace big data industrial park, and a smart manufacturing hub for aerospace equipment.
EHang will actively contribute to the planning and construction of the Low-altitude Intelligent Connected Cold-region Testing Site, also known as the Jilin Drone Inspection and Testing Center. This facility will help validate the EH216-S’s performance in harsh environments, addressing one of the key challenges in autonomous aviation, battery efficiency and airframe durability in extreme cold.
With temperatures in Northeast China often dropping below -30°C, successful operations here could pave the way for expansion into similarly cold climates in regions like Scandinavia and Canada, significantly broadening EHang’s global market potential.
EHang has achieved several regulatory firsts that set it apart from global competitors. In October 2023, the company received the world’s first type certificate (TC) for a pilotless eVTOL from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). This was followed by a standard airworthiness certificate (AC) in December 2023 and a production certificate (PC) in April 2024. In March 2025, EHang’s operators obtained air operator certificates (OC), enabling full commercial operations.
These certifications are crucial for scaling operations, especially as Western competitors like Lilium and Archer Aviation are still navigating complex regulatory landscapes with the FAA and EASA. EHang’s centralized, pilotless model also offers cost advantages by eliminating the need for trained pilots and enabling real-time fleet management via 5G networks.
In 2024, EHang reported a 288.5% year-over-year revenue increase, reaching RMB456.2 million ($62.1 million USD), largely driven by demand for the EH216-S. This financial growth underscores the market’s readiness for autonomous aerial solutions and the effectiveness of EHang’s business model.
The strategic partnership aligns closely with China’s broader policy direction. In July 2023, the State Council formally endorsed low-altitude economic development, aiming for $280 billion in annual output by 2030. The regulatory environment has been streamlined to support rapid deployment, contrasting with slower, more fragmented approaches in Western markets.
Changchun’s local action plan is part of this national narrative, emphasizing safety assurance, scenario expansion, and industrial growth. The city aims to create over 50 application cases by 2025, foster vertiport infrastructure, and establish manufacturing clusters, all of which are directly supported by the EHang-Jingyue collaboration. Hong Kong’s recent launch of a regulatory sandbox with 38 pilot projects further illustrates China’s unified approach to UAM commercialization. This cohesive policy framework gives companies like EHang a significant head start in the global race for urban air mobility leadership.
The global UAM market is projected to reach $23.5 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.2%. EHang’s focus on autonomous, pilotless operations positions it uniquely within this expanding market. Unlike Western counterparts that rely on piloted models, EHang’s approach is inherently more scalable and cost-efficient.
However, challenges remain. Geopolitical tensions may limit export opportunities, and Western regulatory bodies may impose stricter safety standards. The FAA, for instance, is implementing Advisory Circular 21.17-4 for aircraft under 12,500 lbs, while the EU’s EASA maintains rigorous safety probability thresholds.
Nonetheless, EHang’s success in China provides a replicable model for other nations exploring UAM integration. With operations expanding to cities like Guangzhou and Hefei, the company is well-positioned to influence global UAM policies and practices.
The strategic partnership between EHang and Jingyue High-Tech Zone is a landmark in the evolution of urban air mobility. By combining advanced technology, regulatory milestones, and real-world application scenarios, this initiative offers a comprehensive blueprint for low-altitude economic development.
As cities worldwide grapple with urban congestion, emergency response limitations, and sustainable tourism, the success of the Changchun model could inspire similar initiatives globally. With the right policy support and public engagement, autonomous aerial vehicles may soon become a routine feature of modern urban life.
EHang and Jingyue High-Tech Zone: A Strategic Leap in China’s Low-Altitude Economy
Strategic Partnership and Deployment Goals
Scope of the Agreement
Application Scenarios
Infrastructure and Ecosystem Development
Regulatory and Market Context
Certification Milestones and Competitive Edge
Policy Framework and National Strategy
Global Market Implications
Conclusion
FAQ
Sources
href=”https://www.ehang.com/news/1233.html”>EHang Official Announcement, Civil Aviation Administration of China
Photo Credit: EHang
Technology & Innovation
Rapita Systems and Avionyx Partner to Accelerate Avionics Certification
Rapita Systems and Avionyx partner to streamline DO-178C DAL A avionics certification, focusing on multicore processors and next-gen aircraft.
This article is based on an official press release from Rapita Systems.
In a move designed to streamline the complex process of certifying safety-critical aerospace software, Rapita Systems and Avionyx have announced a strategic partnership. According to a press release issued in February 2026, the collaboration aims to create a “one-stop-shop” for avionics verification, specifically targeting the rigorous demands of DO-178C Design Assurance Level A (DAL A) compliance.
The partnership combines Rapita Systems’ automated verification technologies with Avionyx’s decades of engineering service expertise. By integrating these capabilities, the companies intend to address significant bottlenecks in the development of next-generation aircraft, including Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles and unmanned systems. The joint offering focuses heavily on solving the technical challenges associated with multicore processors, a critical component in modern avionics architecture.
The core of the announcement highlights the integration of two distinct strengths: automated tooling and “human-in-the-loop” engineering services. Rapita Systems, a leading provider of software verification tools, brings its Rapita Verification Suite (RVS) and MACH178 solution to the table. These tools are designed to automate on-target software testing, code coverage analysis, and timing analysis.
Avionyx, an aerospace engineering services firm and subsidiary of Joby Aviation, contributes over 35 years of experience in full-lifecycle software development and verification. Under the new agreement, Avionyx engineers will utilize Rapita’s toolset to execute verification tasks for clients. This model allows aerospace manufacturers to outsource certification work to a team already proficient in the industry’s most advanced verification platforms.
“Rapita and Avionyx joining forces is a logical union given our shared focus on supporting high-criticality aerospace projects and commitment to solving the industry’s hardest challenges.”
, Jamie Ayre, Chief Commercial Officer at Rapita Systems
A primary technical objective of this partnership is to facilitate compliance with AC 20-193 (and its European equivalent AMC 20-193). These regulatory standards govern the use of multicore processors in airborne systems. While multicore chips offer the performance required for advanced flight control and autonomy, they introduce “interference channels” where different processing cores compete for shared resources like memory, potentially causing unpredictable behavior.
According to the press release, Rapita’s MACH178 solution specifically targets this issue by analyzing and producing evidence to prove that multicore systems can operate safely and deterministically. By pairing this technology with Avionyx’s certification experience, the partnership claims it can significantly reduce the time required to verify these complex systems. “This collaboration enables Avionyx to offer our customers a faster, more efficient path to certification, even for the most demanding DAL A and multi-core projects.”
, Tom Ferrell, General Manager at Avionyx
While the official announcement focuses on the technical synergy between the two firms, the market context suggests broader implications for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector. Avionyx was acquired by Joby Aviation in 2022, placing it at the center of the race to certify electric air taxis. The pressure to meet aggressive certification timelines for eVTOL aircraft is immense, and traditional manual verification methods are often too slow to keep pace.
We observe that this partnership likely serves a dual purpose: it strengthens the supply chain for the broader aerospace market while validating tools and processes that are critical for the eVTOL industry. By automating the detection of bugs and interference issues, manufacturers can potentially reduce bug-fixing cycles from weeks to hours, a vital efficiency gain for startups and established OEMs alike.
The companies have outlined several key benefits for customers across the Americas and Europe:
DO-178C is the primary document by which certification authorities such as the FAA and EASA approve all commercial software-based aerospace systems. “DAL A” (Design Assurance Level A) is the most stringent safety level, applied to software where a failure would cause a catastrophic condition for the aircraft.
Rapita Systems provides the software tools (RVS and MACH178) that automate the testing and analysis of the avionics software, ensuring it meets safety standards regarding timing and code coverage.
Avionyx provides the engineering workforce and certification expertise. Their engineers use Rapita’s tools to perform the actual verification work, acting as a specialized service provider for aerospace clients.
Rapita Systems and Avionyx Form Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Avionics Certification
Integrating Tools and Expertise
Solving the Multicore Interference Problem
AirPro News Analysis: The eVTOL Context
Key Benefits for Aerospace Manufacturers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DO-178C DAL A?
What is the role of Rapita Systems?
What is the role of Avionyx?
Sources
Photo Credit: Rapita Systems
Technology & Innovation
GKN Aerospace Completes MANTA Morphing Wing Technology Programme
GKN Aerospace and partners complete the MANTA programme, advancing morphing wing tech to reduce weight, drag, and emissions for sustainable aviation.
This article is based on an official press release from GKN Aerospace.
GKN Aerospace, leading a consortium of European manufacturers, has successfully completed the MANTA (MovAbles for Next generaTion Aircraft) programme. Funded under the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking, now part of Clean Aviation, the project focused on maturing innovative control surface technologies designed to make future aircraft lighter, quieter, and more sustainable.
According to the official announcement from GKN Aerospace, the programme delivered four advanced technology demonstrators. These systems utilize “morphing” capabilities to optimize aerodynamics, moving away from traditional heavy mechanical joints. The project was developed in collaboration with the Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), and ASCO.
The primary goal of the MANTA programme was to develop technologies that contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation industry. By replacing conventional hinged systems with morphing structures, the consortium aims to reduce drag and structural weight, which are critical factors in lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
GKN Aerospace stated that the technologies were developed for major industry customers, including Airbus Aircraft, Dassault Aviation, and Saab. The completion of the programme marks a significant step toward integrating these systems into the next generation of high-aspect-ratio wings.
“The results show significant potential for weight reduction, fuel savings, noise reduction and smarter wing load management, key enablers for more sustainable high aspect ratio wings.”
— GKN Aerospace Statement
The consortium successfully matured four distinct technologies, ranging from proof-of-concept stages to validation in relevant environments. GKN Aerospace detailed the specific achievements for each demonstrator:
This concept focuses on drag reduction at the wingtip. Instead of traditional hinged surfaces, it uses flexible thermoplastic composite elements to change shape. According to GKN Aerospace, this technology offers a potential 5% weight saving and an 8% cost reduction compared to traditional systems. Developed with significant input from ASCO, this mechanism combines the functions of a flap and an aileron into a single unit. It allows the wing chord to be varied, eliminating the need for separate ailerons. The consortium reported that this technology achieved Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 through full-scale testing.
The “Fluid Actuated Morphing Unit Structures” (FAMoUS) concept, developed by DLR, represents a novel approach to actuation. It utilizes a fluid-driven system to morph the trailing edge of the wing. GKN Aerospace confirmed this concept was validated at TRL 3, demonstrating a successful proof of concept.
This technology replaces traditional metal intake doors with an optimized morphing composite flap featuring variable thickness. The design aims to improve intake airflow quality and durability by reducing mechanical complexity.
The completion of the MANTA programme highlights a broader industry shift toward “biomimetic” or morphing designs. Traditional aircraft control surfaces rely on gaps and hinges that create aerodynamic turbulence and noise. By utilizing flexible composites and fluid actuation, OEMs can create seamless wing surfaces that adapt to flight conditions much like a bird’s wing.
While technologies like the FAMoUS actuator are still in early development (TRL 3), the advancement of the Multi-Functional Flap Mechanism to TRL 5 suggests that morphing structures are moving closer to industrial application. We anticipate that these innovations will play a crucial role in meeting the European Union’s Clean Aviation goals for 2030 and beyond.
With the programme now concluded, the partners have defined clear pathways to higher Technology Readiness Levels. According to the release, future steps include fatigue testing, environmental validation, and the enhancement of sensor and actuation systems. The consortium plans to explore further integration opportunities with aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
GKN Aerospace and Partners Complete MANTA Programme for Morphing Wing Technology
Advancing Sustainable Aviation
Four Key Technology Demonstrators
1. Winglet Morphing Tab
2. Multi-Functional Flap Mechanism (MFFM)
3. FAMoUS Pressure Cell Actuator
4. Adaptive Air Inlet
AirPro News Analysis
Future Outlook
Sources
Photo Credit: GKN Aerospace
Technology & Innovation
Vaeridion Partners with Molicel for Electric Microliner Battery Supply
Vaeridion secures Molicel as battery supplier for its electric Microliner, targeting first flight in 2027 and commercial entry by 2030.
This article is based on an official press release from Vaeridion.
Munich-based electric aircraft developer Vaeridion has announced a strategic partnerships with E-One Moli Energy Corp. (Molicel) to supply high-performance battery cells for its nine-passenger “Microliner.” According to the company’s official statement released on February 27, 2026, this agreement marks a critical step toward the aircraft’s planned first flight in 2027 and commercial entry by 2030.
The collaboration addresses one of the most significant hurdles in electric aviation: securing aviation-grade energy storage that can deliver high power during take-off while maintaining safety and longevity. Under the agreement, Molicel will provide high-power lithium-ion cylindrical cells, which Vaeridion will integrate into its proprietary battery modules and packs.
Vaeridion CEO Ivor van Dartel emphasized the importance of the partnership in keeping the company’s timeline on track. By selecting a supplier with a proven track record in the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) sector, Vaeridion aims to de-risk the certification process for its electric conventional take-off and landing (eCTOL) aircraft.
The agreement focuses on the supply of cylindrical lithium-ion cells, a format widely favored in the electric aviation industry for its balance of energy density and discharge capability. Molicel, headquartered in Taipei, has established itself as a key player in this sector, already supplying major eVTOL developers such as Archer Aviation and Vertical Aerospace.
According to the press release, the partnership delineates clear roles for both companies:
Vaeridion stated that they are developing the electrical system in-house, with additional support from partners like Bosch, who are assisting with power electronics and battery management systems (BMS).
The Vaeridion Microliner is designed as an electric Conventional Take-Off and Landing (eCTOL) aircraft, distinguishing it from the air taxis (eVTOLs) that have dominated recent headlines. By utilizing existing runways, the Microliner requires significantly less energy for lift than vertical take-off aircraft, allowing for a viable regional range using current battery technology.
A core innovation of the Microliner is the integration of battery modules directly into the wings. Vaeridion claims this “glider-inspired” design offers two primary benefits: The aircraft is designed to transport nine passengers and crew over distances of approximately 500 kilometers, a range Vaeridion asserts covers nearly 80% of typical regional routes.
The announcement follows Vaeridion’s strategic expansion in late 2025. As reported by FlightGlobal and confirmed in Vaeridion’s recent updates, the company acquired the battery manufacturing facility at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport from the insolvent eVTOL developer Lilium. This facility now serves as Vaeridion’s hub for battery industrialization and propulsion testing.
Vaeridion has outlined the following schedule for the Microliner program:
The selection of Molicel is a calculated move that signals maturity in Vaeridion’s supply chain strategy. While many electric aviation startups struggle to secure Tier-1 battery suppliers due to low initial volumes, Molicel has shown a willingness to support the aviation sector aggressively.
Furthermore, Vaeridion’s acquisition of Lilium’s former assets at Oberpfaffenhofen highlights a broader industry trend: the consolidation of the “first wave” of electric aviation resources. By repurposing existing infrastructure and opting for a technically less demanding eCTOL architecture, Vaeridion appears to be positioning itself for a more pragmatic path to certification than its eVTOL predecessors.
What is the difference between eCTOL and eVTOL? Who is Molicel? When will the Vaeridion Microliner enter service? Sources: Vaeridion Press Release
Vaeridion Secures Molicel as Battery Supplier for Electric Microliner
Strategic Partnership Details
Roles and Responsibilities
The Microliner: eCTOL Technology
Wing-Integrated Batteries
Industrialization and Timeline
Key Milestones
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
eCTOL (electric Conventional Take-Off and Landing) aircraft use runways like traditional planes, which is more energy-efficient. eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft can hover and land vertically like helicopters but require more energy and complex propulsion systems.
Molicel (E-One Moli Energy Corp.) is a Taiwanese battery manufacturer specializing in high-power cylindrical lithium-ion cells. They are a primary supplier for several high-performance applications, including electric aviation and hypercars.
Vaeridion is targeting 2030 for commercial entry into service, following a planned first flight in 2027.
Photo Credit: Vaeridion
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