EHang Achieves a Milestone with First Unmanned Urban eVTOL Flight in Europe
It was carried out as part of the European Union’s U-Space European Common Deployment (U-ELCOME) project.
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Chinese urban air mobility (UAM) technology company EHang has reached a major milestone in advancing UAM in Europe with the successful flight of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the EH216-S, in Benidorm, Spain. This marks the first unmanned urban eVTOL flight in Europe.
Part of the EU’s U-Space Deployment Project
The flight was conducted as part of the U-Space European Common Deployment (U-ELCOME) project, a key initiative under the SESAR 3 JU digital sky program of the European Union. Coordinated by Eurocontrol, the initiative brings together 51 partners from France, Italy, and Spain to advance its implementation.
The event demonstrated how Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions can be integrated into controlled urban airspace. Conducted in a designated U-Space environment, the flight showcased innovative coordination between multiple drones, as reported by partner media outlet Aeroin.
Alongside the EH216-S eVTOL, up to twelve additional drones operated simultaneously. Spain’s air navigation service provider, Enaire, managed all aircraft using its U-Space system and services, ensuring a safe and coordinated air traffic environment.
A Major Milestone for Urban Air Mobility
This achievement is a significant step forward in developing U-Space in Europe, proving that multiple unmanned aircraft can safely and efficiently operate in urban environments. The EH216-S flight in Benidorm is the first demonstration of a pilotless eVTOL aircraft in a European city under the regulations of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The successful demonstration confirms the feasibility of integrating unmanned aircraft systems into urban environments while complying with Europe's strict regulatory and safety frameworks. This milestone sets an important precedent for future urban air mobility projects across the continent.
The event was attended by government officials, industry stakeholders, and media representatives, highlighting the growing momentum behind UAM adoption in Europe.
Moving Toward Real-World eVTOL Operations
With this successful demonstration in Benidorm, EHang continues to advance Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), proving that safe and scalable urban eVTOL operations are moving closer to reality.
This initiative aligns with the European Union’s broader efforts to create a comprehensive regulatory and operational framework for the seamless integration of drones and eVTOL aircraft into urban environments.
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