AIR today unveiled its production model eVTOL, marking the company’s transition from aircraft development to commercial-scale manufacturing and deliveries. The completed production model follows the prototype aircraft delivered to the launch customer in Q4 of 2023 and advances AIR’s mission to support commercial cargo operations and strengthen logistical capabilities in contested environments, according to a company press statement. Its first flight will take place in Southern Israel before entering operational service. Subsequent aircraft are scheduled to be sent to AIR’s US-based operation for demonstration efforts and certification advancement.
“Drawing from nearly two years of operational deployment with AIR’s launch customer, the new production aircraft was shaped using field insights,” said AIR. “Operational activities included sustained BVLOS missions, remote resupply in challenging environments, integration with ground elements, and additional mission profiles. These field-proven milestones demonstrate how eVTOL systems are transitioning from experimental platforms to mission-ready assets, underscoring their practical value and driving adoption across sectors.
“AIR’s new cargo production model reflects substantial progress across AIR’s established tier-1 partner ecosystem, featuring an all-new airframe developed by automotive manufacturer EDAG, advanced electric motors, redundant communication and navigation equipment for GPS-denied areas, and a fully updated avionics suite. Capable of taking off and landing vertically while carrying a 550 lb. payload, AIR’s new airframe and next-generation electrical and avionics architecture will support fast-growing uncrewed cargo applications, as well as the overall emerging advanced air mobility market.
“These capabilities stem from deliberate design choices that prioritize both operational efficiency and mission flexibility. Enhancements to the design include optimized battery integration and a larger cargo bay, along with foldable wings and motor arms that enable compact storage, easy transport, and greater mission versatility. The aircraft’s streamlined body design and refined airflow management significantly improve both range and overall flight efficiency. These improvements are coupled with an advanced flight control system that provides increased stability, responsiveness, and redundancy.
“This production model represents years of engineering refinement and collaboration with industry leaders, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies,” said Rani Plaut, CEO and Co-founder of AIR. “We’ve moved beyond proof of concept to proven performance and commercial deployment, supported by vital partnerships. We look forward to continuing to deliver on the promise of transforming how cargo moves around the world.”
In addition to cargo aircraft deliveries, AIR also plans to begin fulfilling over 2,900 pre-orders for its piloted, two-seater AIR ONE aircraft in the coming year, following LSA certification, said the company.
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(Image: AIR)