Core Viewpoint - The eVTOL industry is experiencing significant progress in airworthiness certification, with companies like Xiaopeng Huitian and Muyu Tian Aviation making strides in obtaining necessary certifications for their aircraft models [1][3]. Certification Progress - Xiaopeng Huitian's "Land Carrier" flying vehicle (X3-F) had its production license application accepted on May 9, 2023, while Muyu Tian Aviation's AT1300 model's type certificate application was accepted on April 30, 2023 [1]. - The eVTOL aircraft must obtain three key certifications: Type Certificate (TC), Production Certificate (PC), and Airworthiness Certificate (AC) to be legally operated [2]. Industry Insights - The TC is considered the most challenging certification, typically taking 2-3 years to obtain, while the PC and AC are less difficult [3]. - Currently, only two companies, EHang and Fengfei Aviation, have successfully obtained TC, with EHang's EH216-S taking nearly three years for the process [3][4]. Commercial Operations - EHang and Fengfei Aviation have both obtained their PC after receiving TC, with EHang being the only company to hold all four certifications (AC, TC, PC, OC) in China [4]. - The first operational certificate (OC) was issued to EHang's subsidiary and a joint venture, allowing for low-altitude flight services, primarily for sightseeing and experience flights [5][6]. Future Outlook - The issuance of the OC marks a significant step towards the commercialization of low-altitude passenger services and urban air mobility [6]. - EHang plans to expand its operations to include urban commuting and eventually achieve fully autonomous low-altitude transportation services [6].
eVTOL适航认证提速,低空经济商业化“有条件”落地