Manufacturer
EH216-S eVTOL completes debut passenger flights in Thailand, with flights tests and commercial operations forthcoming
EH216-S pilotless eVTOL aircraft completed debut passenger flights in Thailand at the renowned Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in central Bangkok. The flights mark a new milestone for expanding EHang eVTOL flight footprint to the 18th country globally. With the permission of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, the Company is also planning to conduct flight tests on EH216-S in Thailand and launch commercial flight operations in various regions such as Phuket and Koh Samui by 2025, to collaboratively open Thailand's low-altitude airspace and air mobility market.
The EH216-S is capable of vertical take-off and landing, eliminating the need for traditional airport runways, and can conduct point-to-point air transportation in city centers, effectively alleviating Thailand's issues with ground traffic congestion. Additionally, Thailand is a country with many islands and abundant tourism resources. Traditional water transportation methods are time-consuming, and the application of EH216-S can provide efficient and accessible island-hopping air transportation services, meeting demands for transportation solutions in the tourism industry.
The CAAT plans to open flight tests for certified eVTOLs in various locations in Thailand, and in 2025, will target to open commercial flight operations for certified eVTOLs in certain areas, such as Phuket and Koh Samui, to jointly promote the nation’s opening of low-altitude airspace and air mobility market.
Mr. Suttipong Kongpool, Director of the CAAT, commented: "This demo flights marks significant progress in integrating UAM solutions into Thailand's aviation industry. EHang’s EH216-S is currently the world’s only eVTOL with airworthiness certificates, and we look forward to its commercial flight operations in certain areas of Thailand next year, which will serve as significant contribution to Thailand's UAM roadmap development plan."