Test flight conducted by EHang in Mecca.

EHang recently conducted a successful demonstration flight of its EH216-S pilotless electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The flight, which occurred on June 12, 2024, was carried out in a low-risk, pre-determined section of airspace to assess the capabilities of the eVTOL aircraft in a real-world scenario.

Saudi Arabia is striving to be among the first nations to implement commercial eVTOL services as part of its Vision 2030 economic transformation strategy. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia revealed the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Roadmap earlier in 2024, which outlines the potential launch of eVTOL services in multiple locations across the Kingdom by 2026.

The Saudi authorities are exploring the possibility of using eVTOLs to enhance mobility and alleviate traffic congestion, particularly during the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Various Saudi government entities, including the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the Ministry of Hajj, and the Ministry of Interior, collaborated with Front End, EHang’s partner in Saudi Arabia, to prepare for the trial flight.

Additionally, EHang participated in the Future Aviation Forum held in Riyadh from May 20-22, 2024, where it showcased its technology at the Advanced Air Mobility Pavilion alongside other prominent eVTOL developers like Joby Aviation, Archer, and Volocopter from the United States and Germany, respectively. This event highlighted the growing interest and advancements in the eVTOL industry.