Nöbetçi Eczaneler
China has taken a major step in the rapidly growing autonomous passenger drone (eVTOL) sector by conducting its first passenger air taxi flights. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has granted air operator certificates to EHang Holdings and Hefei Hey Airlines, authorizing them to operate unmanned passenger flights. Following the approval, EHang successfully flew its EH216-S eVTOL and secured 50 firm orders. After rigorous testing, the first passenger trials were carried out in Indonesia.
China’s Advantage in the Global Race
More than 300 companies worldwide are competing in eVTOL production. While many focus on long-range models capable of speeds up to 250 km/h—including aerospace giants like Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer—Chinese manufacturers have quickly gained traction with short-range, two-passenger designs.
According to a report by the Hurun Research Institute, China’s “low-altitude economy” is expected to reach a market value of USD 207 billion by the end of this year, with the figure projected to double by 2035.
Tourism-Oriented Air Taxi Services
As reported by Xinhua, the certifications granted to EHang and Hefei Hey Airlines initially allow the companies to launch autonomous passenger services on short-distance tourism routes. Both companies plan to expand into broader networks over time.
EH216-S Technical Specifications
-
Capacity: 2 passengers
-
Cruise speed: 100 km/h
-
Maximum speed: 130 km/h
-
Maximum altitude: 3,000 m
-
Range: 35 km
-
Flight duration: 21 minutes
-
Battery charging time: 120 minutes
-
Maximum payload: 220 kg
-
Hardware: 16 propellers, 16 electric motors, carbon fiber fuselage
With its multi-rotor design, carbon fiber composite body, and high safety standards, the EH216-S stands out as a pioneer of a new era in urban transportation.