AutoFlight flies eVTOL formation over Shanghai

AutoFlight has flown what it claims is the world’s first formation of three autonomous eVTOL aircraft.

The demonstration which took place over the Chinese city of Shanghai, involved three Prosperity I aircraft. “We aim to complement urban and regional means of transport for all people by building very safe, quiet and affordable air taxis,” said Tian Yu, founder of AutoFlight.

The company, with headquarters in Germany and Shanghai, completed a world record flight in February 2023 when one of its prototypes covered 250km on a single battery charge, taking the previous record from Joby Aviation. 

Lukasz Gadowski, investor and backer of AutoFlight, said: “It is a delight to be part of a venture that’s reshaping the frontiers of technology and innovation. With this successful flight, we have set a new standard for the eVTOL industry.”

The firm plans to make the prototypes into products, with a cargo version set to be released in Asia next year and a passenger version to be gradually developed over the coming years.

Mark Henning, former Airbus Helicopter engineering chief and head of the AutoFlight Europe team, said: “The formation flight is a testament to our commitment towards making aerial transport safe, sustainable and accessible. We have much more to come.”