Eve and United Airlines to launch commuter services in San Francisco
Eve Air Mobility and United Airlines have announced plans to launch electric commuter flights in the San Francisco Bay Area.
With Eve’s eVTOL scheduled to enter service in 2026, both companies will be working with local and state officials, infrastructure, energy and technology providers to get the infrastructure in place to operate eVTOL flights.
Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve, said: “Our shared goal is to provide residents and visitors to the San Francisco Bay area with efficient and cost-competitive transportation in one of the most densely populated urban areas in the US. The Bay Area is perfect for eVTOL flights given its size, traffic, focus on sustainability, innovation and commitment to add other options for mobility.”
Eve’s airraft will offer United’s customers a lower-carbon way to get to its hub airports and commute in dense urban environments, when compared with conventional air taxis and other forms of traditional public transportation. Eve’s all-electric eVTOL has a range of 60 miles (100km) allowing it to complete a variety of UAM missions in the Bay Area.
Michael Leskinen, president of United Airlines VenturesSM, said: “UAM has the potential to revolutionise how United customers work, live, and travel. Eve’s proposed route is a critical first step towards making this all-electric and quiet commute a reality for Bay Area residents.”
In 2022, United announced a $15m investment in Eve and a conditional purchase agreement for 200 eVTOLs plus 200 options. The investment in Eve was driven in part by confidence in the potential growth in the UAM market and Eve’s relationship with Embraer. A key piece of the relationship is the access to Embraer’s global service centres, parts warehouses and field service technicians. Upon entry into service, United could have its entire eVTOL fleet serviced by Eve’s network.
Eve also noted that eVTOL flights in the Bay Area are expected to have a positive economic impact on the community. Employment opportunities ranging from pilots and aircraft service technicians to training and technical services are among the numerous roles that will required filling.
