Avolon to lease over 100 eVTOLS to AirAsia

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AirAsia has agreed to lease a minimum of 100 VX4 eVTOL aircraft from Avolon. The non-binding understanding is part of AirAsia’s plan to commercialise zero-emissions UAM in Southeast Asia.

Tony Fernandes, founder, AirAsia said: “In the VX4, we have identified what we believe will be the eVTOL aircraft of choice and we are thrilled to be the launch airline for the aircraft in Southeast Asia.”

In addition to the aircraft, Avolon’s investment subsidiary, Avolon-e, will partner with AirAsia to assist in building the UAM infrastructure and regulatory framework required for large-scale commercial operations. This includes an upgrade to the AirAsia’s mobile app to support an eVTOL ride sharing platform.

In June 2021, Avolon ordered 500 VX4 eVTOL aircraft from Vertical Aerospace, valued at $2bn. Since announcing that order, Avolon placed 250 VX4 aircraft with Gol and Grupo Comporte in Brazil, up to 100 aircraft with Japan Airlines in Japan, and at least 100 aircraft with AirAsia.

Dómhnal Slattery, CEO, Avolon said: “We look forward to working with Tony Fernandes, and the AirAsia team, on their eVTOL journey. Together we will develop a ride sharing platform and bring the zero-emissions VX4 aircraft into service, positioning AirAsia as the operator of choice for sustainable air travel in the region.”

Stephen Fitzpatrick, CEO, Vertical added: “We are delighted that AirAsia is the latest leading airline committing to lease our zero operating emissions VX4 aircraft. AirAsia provides many fantastic opportunities to travel around some of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world, and I am thrilled that we will be bringing zero emissions flight to people all across Asia.”