This article is based on an official press release from Eve Air Mobility.

Eve Air Mobility Successfully Completes First Flight of Full-Scale eVTOL Prototype

On December 19, 2025, Eve Air Mobility achieved a critical milestone in the development of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The company, a subsidiary of Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer, successfully conducted the first flight of its full-scale prototype at the Embraer test facility in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo, Brazil.

This uncrewed hover flight validates the fundamental architecture of the aircraft, which utilizes a “Lift + Cruise” configuration distinct from the tilt-rotor designs favored by some competitors. According to the company’s official statement, the test confirmed the functionality of the electric propulsion system and the 5th-generation fly-by-wire controls, performing exactly as computer models had predicted.

While Eve Air Mobility is entering the flight-test phase later than some of its primary rivals, the successful deployment of a full-scale prototype signals the company’s transition from design to execution. With a target Entry into Service (EIS) set for 2027, Eve is leveraging Embraer’s industrial backing to accelerate its Certification program.

Flight Details and Technical Validation

The test conducted in Gavião Peixoto was a dedicated hover flight. This specific profile is designed to test the vertical lift capabilities of the aircraft before attempting forward wing-borne flight. The prototype utilized eight dedicated vertical lift rotors to maintain a stable hover, allowing engineers to assess aerodynamic performance and control laws in real-world conditions.

Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve Air Mobility, emphasized the significance of the event in a statement released by the company:

“Today, Eve flew… This flight validates our plan, which has been executed with precision to deliver the best solution for the market.”

Following this successful hover test, the company plans to expand the flight envelope throughout 2026. This will involve transitioning from vertical lift to forward flight, powered by the rear pusher propeller, and testing the aircraft’s fixed wing for cruise efficiency.

Aircraft Specifications: The “Eve-100”

The prototype flown represents the configuration intended for commercial certification. Unlike “tilt-rotor” designs that rotate propellers to switch between lift and cruise modes, Eve has opted for a separated “Lift + Cruise” architecture. This design choice prioritizes mechanical simplicity and potentially lower maintenance costs.

According to technical specifications released by Eve Air Mobility, the aircraft features:

• Propulsion: 100% electric, battery-powered system.
• Configuration: Eight fixed rotors for vertical lift and one pusher propeller for cruise.
• Range: 60 miles (100 km), optimized for urban commuting.
• Capacity: Initially designed for one pilot and four passengers, with future autonomous readiness for up to six passengers.
• Noise Profile: Engineered to be up to 90% quieter than equivalent Helicopters.

AirPro News Analysis: The Strategic Landscape

At AirPro News, we observe that Eve’s successful first flight places it in a unique position within the “race to market.” While competitors like Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation have already logged significant flight hours with full-scale prototypes, including transition flights, Eve’s strategy appears to be one of deliberate, industrial-scale preparation over speed.

The “Lift + Cruise” design philosophy suggests a focus on reliability and operating economics. By avoiding the complex tilting mechanisms found in competitor aircraft, Eve may offer operators a vehicle with fewer moving parts and lower direct maintenance costs. Furthermore, Eve’s relationship with Embraer provides immediate access to a global service and support network, a logistical hurdle that independent Startups must build from scratch.

Despite being arguably the “tortoise” in terms of flight testing timelines, Eve holds the industry’s largest backlog of Letters of Intent (LoI), totaling nearly 3,000 aircraft. This massive order book indicates strong market confidence in Embraer’s ability to deliver a certifiable product.

Future Roadmap: Certification and Service

Looking ahead, Eve Air Mobility has outlined a rigorous schedule for the next two years. The company intends to build five additional conforming prototypes in 2026 to accelerate data collection. These aircraft will be used to accumulate the hundreds of flight hours required for certification authorities.

Luiz Valentini, CTO of Eve, noted the disciplined approach to the upcoming testing phase:

“The prototype behaved as predicted by our models… We will expand the envelope and progress toward transition to wingborne flight in a disciplined manner.”

The company is targeting Type Certification from Brazil’s ANAC in 2027, with concurrent validation sought from the FAA (USA) and EASA (Europe). Commercial deliveries are scheduled to begin immediately following certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Eve’s eVTOL enter service?

Eve Air Mobility targets Entry into Service (EIS) in 2027, following certification by aviation authorities.

What is the range of the aircraft?

The aircraft is designed for a range of 60 miles (100 km), making it suitable for cross-city trips and airport transfers.

Is the aircraft autonomous?

The initial version will be piloted (1 pilot + 4 passengers), but the design is “autonomous-ready” for future pilotless operations carrying up to 6 passengers.

Sources

• Eve Air Mobility Press Release