The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has partnered with EHang and Multi Level Group (MLG) to conduct a test flight of the EH216-S, a passenger electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, demonstrating the emirate's commitment to advancing urban mobility.

This test flight is part of a public demonstration aimed at integrating autonomous aerial mobility into daily life, further enhancing innovation and artificial intelligence in Abu Dhabi.

The EH216-S is notable for being the world's first certified pilotless eVTOL, featuring a dual-motor system with 32 independent motors, ensuring safe, zero-emission urban mobility.

Designed for applications such as sightseeing and short-distance travel, the aircraft operates quietly without the need for runways, making it suitable for future urban infrastructure.

The demonstration engaged the public, building trust in new technologies and generating excitement for the future of urban air mobility.

Mohamed Salah, CEO of Advanced Mobility Hub, stated that this partnership positions Abu Dhabi as a global hub for future transportation technologies while supporting the commercialization of low-altitude passenger aviation services.

Abu Dhabi aims to lead in eVTOL technology by fostering collaboration between government and industry, localizing production, and developing necessary infrastructure.

This initiative is part of Abu Dhabi's broader strategy to enhance innovation and artificial intelligence in transportation, aiming to provide fully autonomous, zero-emission aerial transport.

His Excellency Badr Al Olama from ADIO emphasized that the demonstration is a significant step towards making urban air taxis a common mode of transport, contributing to economic diversification and local capabilities.

The flight validated essential technologies, including performance in hot weather, airspace coordination, route planning, and vertiport operations, under the supervision of the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

EHang plans to establish regional operations in Abu Dhabi, which will include a final assembly line and support facilities, reinforcing the emirate's strategy for an innovation-led economy.

The demonstration was organized by ADIO in collaboration with the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), EHang, and MLG, highlighting the emirate's commitment to innovation in urban mobility.