AutoFlight, a prominent name in autonomous electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, has achieved a first in the aviation industry with the successful formation flight of three full-scale eVTOL aircraft. The demonstration took place in Shanghai, China, and involved three of AutoFlight's "Prosperity I" models, a forward step not only for AutoFlight but also for the nascent "battery electric Airtaxi" sector.
The company's achievement showcases its rapid prototype design and manufacturing capabilities, and the ambition to redefine the future of aerial transportation.
Tian Yu, Founder of AutoFlight, who has years of experience in delivering remotely piloted aircraft on a large scale, commented, "We aim to complement urban and regional means of transport for all people by building very safe, quiet, and affordable airtaxis."
Technology entrepreneur and investor Lukasz Gadowski, who is a supporter of AutoFlight, added,
"It is a delight to be part of a venture that’s reshaping the frontiers of technology and innovation. With this successful flight, we have set a new standard for the eVTOL industry."
AutoFlight, headquartered in Augsburg, Germany, and Shanghai, China, set a world record flight in February 2023 when one of their prototypes covered a distance of 250 km on a single battery charge, manifesting the sector's sustainability potential.
The company has been a driving force in eVTOL technology over the past 18 months, achieving several firsts: the first full-scale eVTOL transition flight in January 2022 and the first eVTOL full-length flight video release in June 2022.
The formation flight involved three iterations of the "Prosperity I" aircraft, showcasing the rapid development of the aircraft. AutoFlight plans to transform these prototypes into products. A cargo version of the aircraft is slated for release next year for safe cargo transport in Asia, and a passenger version will be developed gradually over the coming years, adhering to the highest safety standards for aviation.
"The formation flight is a testament to our commitment towards making aerial transport safe, sustainable, and accessible," said Mark Henning, former Airbus Helicopter Engineering Chief and head of the AutoFlight Europe team. "We have much more to come."
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