Industry news digest · eVTOL Insights
Electra successfully demonstrated takeoff and landing of its hybrid-electric EL2 fixed-wing aircraft at Downtown Skyport heliport in Lower Manhattan, marking the first operation of a fixed-wing aircraft without vertical takeoff capability at this site. The aircraft uses hybrid-electric propulsion and blown-lift technology to achieve ultra-short takeoff and landing within 150 feet
This demonstration is part of Electra’s "Life Beyond Runways" program aimed at enabling regional air services from sites not designed for conventional runways. The company plans to develop a larger nine-passenger EL9 aircraft based on this technology, pursuing a model connecting urban centers and regional destinations without major airports, according to Electra
Source: eVTOL InsightsOn October 30, 2026, EHang announced the establishment of a regional hub in Thailand to support deployment of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft across Southeast Asia and emerging markets. The company plans to deploy a fleet of 25 pilotless EH216-S eVTOLs in Thailand for flight validation and operational preparation
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Two electric prototype aircraft landed at Tampa International Airport as part of Florida Department of Transportation's evaluation of a planned statewide aerial highway network. The flights included a Joby Aviation eVTOL aircraft that took off from Albert Whitted Airport in St. Petersburg and landed in Tampa after local airspace operations
Read storyThe Florida Department of Transportation announced completion of initial demonstration flights under the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Program, partnering with Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies. The flights tested cargo deliveries and routes over Tampa Bay using electric conventional and vertical takeoff aircraft
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