Electric Aircraft
AIR Opens Israel eVTOL Facility to Scale Urban Air Mobility
AIR’s new Israeli production plant boosts eVTOL output with automotive processes, 2,500 preorders, and plans for US expansion to meet growing air mobility demand.
The unveiling of AIR’s new 32,000-square-foot production facility in central Israel marks a pivotal shift in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) industry. As demand surges for both cargo eVTOL aircraft, AIR is positioning itself to scale operations, reduce delivery times, and meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving market. The facility, designed to support concurrent production of up to six aircraft, serves as a strategic bridge between prototype development and full-scale commercialization.
This milestone is not only a testament to AIR’s engineering prowess but also to the broader transformation occurring within urban mobility. With over 2,500 preorders for the AIR ONE and 15 cargo eVTOLs scheduled for delivery in 2025, AIR is emerging as a serious contender in a market projected to reach $39 billion by 2033. The facility’s modular design and in-house testing capabilities reinforce AIR’s commitment to quality, safety, and scalability, key pillars in the journey toward widespread eVTOL adoption.
Located in central Israel, AIR’s new facility exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to eVTOL manufacturing. The 32,000-square-foot space is segmented into specialized zones for aircraft assembly, composite materials fabrication, engineering, and painting. This layout not only enhances workflow efficiency but also allows for the simultaneous assembly of six aircraft at various production stages, significantly reducing lead times.
One of the standout features of the facility is its integration of automotive-inspired processes. Tier-1 suppliers deliver pre-validated subsystems, such as high-torque electric motors from Nidec Corporation, which are then assembled using automotive-grade protocols. This approach ensures component interoperability and minimizes error rates, with final assembly defect rates reportedly as low as 0.2%.
In-house testing labs further bolster AIR’s quality assurance standards. These labs conduct structural and battery validation tests aligned with FAA Part 23 safety requirements, ensuring that each aircraft meets rigorous operational benchmarks before deployment to the flight line.
“This new site is integral to AIR’s focus on multi-domain eVTOL development,” said Chen Rosen, CTO and co-founder of AIR. “It was built with future growth in mind, offering ample space and the flexibility required for increased production capacity.”
To achieve optimal performance and efficiency, AIR utilizes advanced composite materials fabricated on-site using resin-transfer molding techniques. These materials offer a 40% weight reduction compared to traditional aluminum alloys, directly enhancing aircraft range and payload capacity.
The facility’s modular design serves a dual purpose: it supports current production needs while acting as a blueprint for a larger, automated U.S.-based manufacturing site. This future facility will feature high-volume production lines capable of scaling annual output from the current 50–60 units to as many as 200 units with process optimizations.
VP of Operations Roi Peleg emphasized the importance of the facility’s layout in fostering collaboration. By streamlining feedback loops between engineering and production teams, AIR can rapidly iterate on designs, reducing time-to-market for new variants and upgrades. AIR’s collaboration with German engineering firm EDAG Group highlights the convergence of automotive and aerospace technologies. EDAG designed the AIR ONE’s aluminum airframe, which features foldable wings and motor arms to facilitate compact storage and road transport, a key selling point for private owners.
These design efficiencies are complemented by shared tooling strategies; 70% of AIR’s assembly jigs are adapted from automotive production lines, reducing costs and accelerating production. EDAG’s CEO Harald Keller noted that these efficiencies are crucial for maintaining structural integrity while minimizing weight.
Additionally, AIR’s supply chain includes partners specializing in silicon-anode battery chemistry and multi-sourced carbon-fiber composites. These relationships not only ensure high-performance components but also mitigate risks associated with geopolitical disruptions and material shortages.
The global eVTOL market is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 54.9% through 2030. AIR has already secured over 2,500 preorders for its AIR ONE model, each priced around $350,000, representing approximately $875 million in potential revenue. Meanwhile, 15 cargo variants are scheduled for delivery in 2025 to industries such as offshore logistics and emergency medical services.
AIR’s dual-market strategy, targeting both personal and enterprise customers, allows it to diversify revenue streams. The cargo eVTOL, with its 70 cubic feet of storage, is particularly suited for time-sensitive deliveries like medical supplies. This flexibility positions AIR to adapt to shifting market demands and regulatory landscapes.
CEO Rani Plaut emphasized that the AIR ONE is designed for daily commuting, with 60% of preorder customers already holding private pilot licenses. This user base lowers training barriers and supports AIR’s goal of democratizing air mobility.
AIR is pursuing Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) certification under the FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates (MOSAIC) framework, expected to be finalized by 2025. This regulatory pathway simplifies certification requirements and reduces insurance premiums by 20–30% compared to experimental categories.
The LSA classification is particularly advantageous for AIR, enabling quicker market entry and broader adoption. It also aligns with the company’s vision of making eVTOLs accessible to a wider audience, beyond just commercial operators and government agencies. However, infrastructure challenges remain. As of 2025, only 12 vertiports are expected to be operational in the U.S., potentially limiting near-term deployment. Addressing these gaps will be essential to achieving the full potential of urban air mobility.
Israel’s robust aerospace ecosystem provides a competitive advantage for AIR. With 12% of the country’s technical workforce employed in aerospace R&D, companies like AIR benefit from a talent pool and government support that accelerates innovation. Grants covering up to 30% of certification costs further enhance AIR’s ability to bring products to market swiftly.
Globally, sustainability mandates are pushing the aviation industry toward electric alternatives. AIR’s eVTOLs offer a 65% reduction in carbon emissions compared to helicopters, aligning with initiatives like the EU’s “Fit for 55” and airline decarbonization targets.
Still, technological constraints such as battery energy density must be addressed. AIR is actively working with solid-state battery developers to achieve 400 Wh/kg by 2027, which would significantly enhance payload capacity and range.
AIR’s new production facility in Israel represents a significant leap toward mainstreaming eVTOL technology. By combining automotive-grade manufacturing processes, strategic partnerships, and a scalable infrastructure, AIR is well-positioned to meet its ambitious delivery goals and expand its market footprint. The facility not only enables faster production but also ensures that safety and quality remain uncompromised.
Looking ahead, AIR’s success will depend on its ability to scale operations, navigate regulatory landscapes, and continue innovating in battery and materials technology. With plans for a larger U.S.-based facility and a growing order book, AIR is poised to play a central role in the future of urban air mobility, one that is cleaner, faster, and more accessible than ever before.
What is the purpose of AIR’s new production facility? How many aircraft can AIR produce annually at the new site? What types of eVTOLs does AIR manufacture? When is the AIR ONE expected to be certified? What are the environmental benefits of AIR’s aircraft? Sources: AIR Press Release, AIR ONE Announcement
AIR’s New Production Facility: Redefining eVTOL Manufacturing and Urban Air Mobility
Engineering the Future: Inside AIR’s New Production Facility
Purpose-Built for Scale and Efficiency
Composite Materials and Modular Design
Strategic Partnerships and Technological Synergies
Market Dynamics and AIR’s Competitive Edge
Responding to Growing Demand
Regulatory Tailwinds and Certification Pathways
Global Positioning and Long-Term Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
The facility is designed to accelerate production of AIR’s eVTOL aircraft, support scalability, and serve as a model for a larger U.S.-based plant.
The current capacity supports 50–60 units per year, scalable to 200 with process optimizations.
AIR produces both a two-seater piloted eVTOL (AIR ONE) and an uncrewed cargo variant for enterprise use.
AIR is targeting Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) certification under the FAA’s MOSAIC framework by 2025.
AIR’s eVTOLs offer a 65% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional helicopters, supporting global sustainability goals.
Photo Credit: AIR
Electric Aircraft
KULR and Robinson Collaborate on Battery System for eR66 Electric Helicopter
KULR Technology Group and Robinson Helicopter Company partner to develop a next-gen battery system for the eR66 electric helicopter, targeting late 2026 milestones.
This article is based on an official press release from KULR Technology Group, Inc. and Robinson Helicopter Company.
On March 26, 2026, KULR Technology Group and Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) announced a strategic co-development collaboration aimed at advancing Electric-Aviation. According to the official press release, the partnership will focus on developing a next-generation, high-performance battery system for the eR66, a battery-electric demonstrator variant of Robinson’s widely used R66 turbine Helicopters.
Under the new agreement, KULR will serve as the battery architecture co-developer for the eR66 platform. The Houston-based technology company will design and integrate a lightweight battery system utilizing its proprietary thermal management and safety technologies, which were originally developed for human-rated spaceflight applications. The companies have targeted late 2026 for their initial program milestones.
The collaboration seeks to drive critical improvements in energy density and thermal stability while establishing a domestic supply chain for electric aviation components. By leveraging RHC’s Manufacturing capabilities in Torrance, California, and KULR’s engineering operations in Texas, the initiative aims to support the broader decarbonization of the aerospace sector.
The eR66 project represents a distinct approach to electric aviation. Rather than building an entirely new eVTOL aircraft from the ground up, RHC is retrofitting its standard R66, a light, gas-turbine helicopter introduced in 2012 that has seen over 1,500 units built to date, according to industry research data. By utilizing an already FAA-certified airframe, RHC intends to bypass many of the infrastructure and supply chain hurdles currently facing novel eVTOL Startups.
This development builds upon RHC’s ongoing electrification efforts. Industry reports note that in July 2025, RHC announced a joint agreement with electric propulsion company magniX to provide the HeliStorm electric engine and Samson batteries for the eR66 demonstrator. The March 2026 agreement brings KULR into the fold specifically to design the lightweight integration and safety protocols required to make the battery system viable for rigorous flight conditions.
While the standard gas-turbine R66 boasts a range of approximately 650 kilometers, research estimates place the eR66’s range at around 185 kilometers. RHC leadership has indicated that this shorter range is highly adequate for targeted, short-haul missions.
Balancing high energy density with low weight remains the primary engineering challenge in electric aviation, particularly concerning thermal runaway, a critical safety risk where battery cells overheat and catch fire. To address this, KULR is implementing its KULR ONE platform. According to company data, this architecture utilizes fibercore flame arrestors, ablative shielding, and sidewall rupture protection to ensure fail-safe operations. In the press release, KULR CTO Dr. Will Walker emphasized the importance of their engineering background in overcoming these hurdles.
“Our engineering team’s extensive background in designing fail-safe batteries for human rated applications will be critical to achieving the rigorous performance and Certification goals,” Walker stated in the release.
KULR, which currently holds a market capitalization of approximately $114 million and has reported 72% revenue growth over the trailing twelve months according to recent financial data, brings NASA-qualified technology to the commercial rotorcraft sector. KULR CEO Michael Mo noted that their battery systems were designed from day one for dual use, proving their architecture’s viability in rotorcraft.
A primary focus for the eR66 is high-demand, short-haul applications such as rapid organ and tissue transport. In Emergency Medical Services (EMS), speed is critical, but noise and emissions often restrict traditional helicopter operations in dense urban environments. By eliminating the Rolls-Royce gas turbine, the electric powertrain is expected to cut up to a third of the aircraft’s noise, specifically the high-pitch turbine whine.
David Smith, who became President and CEO of RHC in February 2024, highlighted the operational benefits of the electric variant in the company’s announcement.
“For use cases like rapid organ and tissue transport, the reduced acoustic signature and zero-emission profile ensure that time-sensitive, low-emission deliveries are faster, quieter, and more sustainable,” Smith said.
Beyond zero-emission flight, the partnership is also pioneering circular economy principles in aviation. The companies announced plans to develop “second life” applications for the battery systems post-flight. This means the batteries are designed for a primary flight cycle in the eR66, followed by a certified second life in other applications, thereby maximizing the lifecycle of the hardware and reducing environmental waste.
We view the RHC and KULR collaboration as a highly pragmatic counter-narrative to the current eVTOL hype cycle. While billions of dollars are being poured into uncertified, ground-up air taxi designs that require entirely new infrastructure, RHC is leveraging the world’s most popular civil helicopter platform. By electrifying the R66, operators will be able to utilize existing helipads, established pilot training frameworks, and current maintenance networks. Furthermore, bringing in KULR to adapt NASA-grade thermal shielding directly addresses the FAA’s stringent safety concerns regarding lithium-ion battery fires in aviation. If successful, this retrofit model could offer a significantly faster and more capital-efficient path to market for commercial electric flight than clean-sheet eVTOL designs.
The eR66 is a battery-electric demonstrator helicopter based on Robinson Helicopter Company’s proven R66 gas-turbine platform. It is designed to offer reliable, low-noise, and zero-emission performance for short-haul flights.
KULR Technology Group is serving as the battery architecture co-developer. They are responsible for designing and integrating a lightweight, high-performance battery system that utilizes their proprietary thermal management and safety technologies to prevent thermal runaway. According to the joint press release, the companies are targeting late 2026 for their initial program milestones.
Sources: KULR Technology Group and Robinson Helicopter Company Press Release
The eR66 Program and the Pragmatic Path to Electric Flight
Retrofitting a Proven Platform
Space-Grade Safety for Aviation Batteries
KULR’s Thermal Management Expertise
Targeting Specialized Missions and Sustainability
Organ Transport and the Circular Economy
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eR66?
What is KULR’s role in the partnership?
When will the eR66 reach its first milestones?
Photo Credit: Robinson Helicopter Company
Electric Aircraft
AIR Surpasses $1 Billion in Orders for Smart eVTOL Aircraft
Israel’s AIR reaches $1 billion in eVTOL orders, reporting $35 million revenue and FAA certification progress for AIR ONE personal aircraft.
This article is based on an official press release from AIR.
Smart aircraft manufacturer AIR has officially surpassed $1 billion in orders, signaling strong market interest in its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. According to a company press release, the Israel-based firm has accumulated a waitlist of more than 3,300 customers, with many having already placed deposits for future deliveries.
The milestone highlights the growing demand for next-generation air mobility solutions across personal, commercial, and defense sectors. AIR reported over $35 million in booked revenue to date, which the company attributes primarily to the sale and delivery of its Heavy-Lift unmanned aerial systems (UAS), alongside mobile ground control stations, parts, and servicing packages.
As the eVTOL industry moves closer to widespread commercialization, AIR is positioning itself to capitalize on emerging regulatory frameworks. The manufacturer noted that its flagship personal aircraft, the AIR ONE, is currently being considered under the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates (MOSAIC) framework as a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA).
The bulk of the company’s billion-dollar backlog stems from its consumer-focused model. In its official announcement, AIR detailed that 3,290 of the orders are for the AIR ONE personal aircraft. This two-seat, fully electric eVTOL is designed for private use and boasts a projected range of 100 miles.
According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the AIR ONE can reach speeds of up to 155 miles per hour and carry a payload of up to 550 pounds. The company stated that these personal aircraft orders will be fulfilled once FAA certification is secured and mass production begins. The aircraft also features redundant safety layers, an airframe parachute system, and “Fly-By-Intent” flight control technology.
Beyond personal mobility, AIR is also seeing traction in the commercial and logistics space. The press release indicated that the company has secured more than 25 orders for its AIR Cargo heavy-lift UAS, with two units already delivered to customers.
The cargo variant features a 70-cubic-foot cargo bay and matches the personal model’s 550-pound payload capacity. AIR confirmed it has an active production line for the heavy-lift aircraft and anticipates producing and delivering more than 20 additional units this year. The surge in orders follows a series of strategic and financial developments for the eVTOL developer. In July of last year, AIR closed a $23 million Series A funding round led by Entrée Capital, with participation from early backer Dr. Shmuel Harlap.
Furthermore, the company announced in September that its latest U.S.-based prototype had received an FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification. These regulatory and financial steps are crucial as the company transitions from prototyping to scalable manufacturing, supported by partnerships with the U.S. Air Force’s Agility Prime program, ST Engineering, Nidec Motors, and EDAG.
“Our mission is to make air mobility accessible and routine, while bridging personal, commercial, and defense transportation and operations,” said Rani Plaut, CEO and Co-Founder of AIR, in the press release.
The announcement of $1 billion in orders is a significant indicator of consumer and commercial appetite for eVTOL technology. However, as with many advanced air mobility startups, the transition from pre-orders to delivered, certified aircraft remains the ultimate hurdle. The fact that AIR is already generating real revenue, $35 million booked from its heavy-lift UAS and support systems, sets it apart from competitors that rely entirely on future passenger operations.
By targeting the Light Sport Aircraft category under the FAA’s MOSAIC framework, AIR may find a more streamlined path to market for its personal vehicles compared to the rigorous commercial passenger certification processes faced by air taxi operators. We will continue to monitor their production ramp-up, particularly whether they can meet their goal of delivering more than 20 cargo units this year.
The AIR ONE is a two-seater, fully electric eVTOL designed for personal use. According to the manufacturer, it features a 100-mile range, speeds up to 155 mph, and a 550-pound payload capacity.
The company reported over $35 million in book revenue, driven largely by its Heavy-Lift UAS deliveries, mobile ground control stations, parts, and servicing packages.
In September, AIR’s U.S.-based eVTOL prototype received an FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification. The AIR ONE is also being considered within the Light Sport Aircraft category under the FAA’s MOSAIC framework.
AIR Surpasses $1 Billion in Orders for Smart Aircraft and eVTOLs
Breaking Down the $1 Billion Order Book
Commercial and Heavy-Lift UAS Progress
Recent Milestones and Strategic Partnerships
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AIR ONE?
How much revenue has AIR generated?
Has the FAA certified AIR’s aircraft?
Sources
Photo Credit: AIR
Electric Aircraft
Beyond Aero Advances Hydrogen-Electric Business Jet Design Milestone
Beyond Aero reaches a critical design milestone for its hydrogen-electric business jet, expanding engineering teams and securing hydrogen infrastructure partnerships.
This article is based on an official press release from Beyond Aero.
French hydrogen aviation startup Beyond Aero has reached a critical design milestone for its upcoming hydrogen-electric business jet, signaling a maturation in both its supply chain and engineering efforts. In a recent company press release, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) detailed its progress in aircraft development and the parallel rollout of necessary ground infrastructure.
The transition to hydrogen propulsion represents a major shift for the aviation industry, requiring not just new aircraft architectures but entirely new fuel ecosystems. We are seeing Beyond Aero attempt to tackle both challenges simultaneously, ensuring that its clean-sheet aircraft will have the necessary refueling support upon its projected entry into service.
According to the official release, the company is aggressively expanding its technical capabilities and forging strategic partnerships to derisk the deployment of gaseous hydrogen for business aviation.
Developing a first-of-its-kind hydrogen-electric aircraft requires significant engineering resources. The press release notes that Beyond Aero now employs more than 80 aerospace engineers who are entirely dedicated to the program.
Industry estimates from Aerospace Global News indicate the aircraft is targeting a range of 800 nautical miles and a six-passenger capacity. Furthermore, the aircraft has an estimated entry into service in 2030, according to reporting by Flight Global. By building a dedicated workforce of over 80 specialists, the OEM is positioning itself to navigate the complex certification pathways required by European regulators.
A primary hurdle for hydrogen aviation is the lack of existing airport infrastructure. To address this, Beyond Aero is developing its aircraft alongside the required hydrogen ground systems. According to the company’s press release, the OEM has signed more than 10 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with airport operators.
Furthermore, the company has secured over 16 MoUs with hydrogen production and distribution partners. These agreements are designed to support the logistical planning and supply chain maturity necessary for reliable gaseous hydrogen delivery at commercial airports. To maximize operational flexibility, Beyond Aero has engineered its aircraft to be compatible with multiple refueling standards. As stated in the official announcement:
The aircraft is designed to operate using both 700-bar hydrogen infrastructure and 350-bar mobile refuelling systems, enabling operational deployment from existing airports.
This dual compatibility is a strategic decision by the OEM, allowing early adopters to utilize the aircraft before permanent, high-pressure hydrogen stations are widely constructed.
We view Beyond Aero’s dual-track approach, developing the aircraft while simultaneously securing the fuel supply chain, as a pragmatic response to the realities of the hydrogen aviation market. The reliance on 350-bar mobile refueling systems is particularly notable. It provides a vital stopgap that allows operators to fly the aircraft without waiting for airports to invest in expensive, permanent 700-bar infrastructure. Combined with a substantial engineering workforce and over $44 million in total funding raised to date (as reported by Aerospace Global News), the French startup is building a credible foundation for its 2030 service entry target. However, the sheer volume of MoUs will eventually need to translate into binding infrastructure investments to make widespread hydrogen flight a reality.
Beyond Aero is a French aviation startup developing a clean-sheet, hydrogen-electric light business jet designed for zero direct emissions in flight.
According to their press release, Beyond Aero has signed over 10 MoUs with airport operators and more than 16 with hydrogen producers. The aircraft is also designed to use 350-bar mobile refueling systems, allowing it to operate at airports without permanent hydrogen stations.
The company currently employs more than 80 aerospace engineers dedicated to the aircraft program.
Engineering and Design Maturation
Expanding the Technical Workforce
Hydrogen Infrastructure Integration
Ground Support and Strategic Partnerships
Dual-Pressure Refueling Capabilities
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beyond Aero?
How is the company addressing the lack of hydrogen at airports?
How many engineers are working on the project?
Sources
Photo Credit: Beyond Aero
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