EHang’s EH216-S, the revolutionary autonomous eVTOL, has made its inaugural flight in Brazil, marking a significant milestone in the push towards pilotless passenger travel across the country. The historic flight took place in Quadra, Sao Paolo, facilitated by Gohobby Future Technologies, a local operator with a vision of pioneering autonomous air mobility in Brazil. The event was witnessed by aviation authorities and media representatives, signaling the start of EHang’s operations in the nation.
The flight comes hot on the heels of EHang securing an Experimental Flight Authorization Certificate (CAVE) from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). This trial flight is just the beginning, with further testing campaigns planned in collaboration with Gohobby and the Brazilian Airspace Control Department (DECEA).
EHang’s expansion into Brazil marks another strategic victory for the Chinese eVTOL manufacturer, which has now conducted over 50,000 successful flights in 17 countries, spanning Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America. EHang’s global ambitions were bolstered by becoming the first certified autonomous passenger aircraft manufacturer in October 2023.
The EH216-S is designed as a lightweight, short-range eVTOL with a range of 22 miles (35 km) per charge, a top speed of 80.7 mph (130 kph), and a maximum operating altitude of 9,800 feet (3,000 meters). Its quick two-hour battery charge time ensures rapid turnaround, making it ideal for urban air mobility.
The aircraft has already made headlines globally, becoming the first autonomous eVTOL incorporated into the formal fleet of a law enforcement agency in the European Union with Spain’s national police.
Brazil, known for its advanced aeronautical industry and strategic positioning in the global Urban Air Mobility (UAM) market, is a key battleground for the future of autonomous flight. Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer has cemented its place as a UAM leader with Eve Air Mobility, a globally recognized brand for passenger air taxis. Similarly, Moya Aero’s Moya aircraft has claimed its place as Latin America’s first autonomous cargo eVTOL.
EHang’s presence in Brazil adds another heavyweight to the nation’s growing UAM ecosystem, aligning with strategic international collaborations, including with partners in the UAE. Earlier this year, EHang demonstrated its capabilities in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the EH216-S alongside its logistics variant, the EH216-L, and the firefighting version, the EH216-F. These demonstrations highlighted the versatility and potential of EHang’s pilotless, emission-free aircraft in critical sectors worldwide.
As EHang pushes forward, Brazil’s skies could soon be buzzing with pilotless passenger flights, solidifying the country’s position as a major player in the future of urban air mobility.
