China just approved flying taxis – no pilot needed

China just approved its first flying taxis for commercial passenger service. This groundbreaking move marks a significant shift in the future of urban mobility, positioning China at the forefront of autonomous air transport. These vehicles are expected to redefine how cities tackle traffic congestion and pollution, acting as a model for future smart city infrastructure worldwide. Official Regulatory Approval The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has granted air operator certificates to EHang Holdings in Guangdong and its subsidiary Heyi Aviation in Hefei. These certificates are the final regulatory step needed to begin commercial operations. This approval reflects years of testing and demonstrates the Chinese government’s increasing openness to next-gen mobility technologies. Aircraft Overview: Compact and Capable The newly certified two-seater aircraft features eight arms and 16 propellers, showcasing a compact yet powerful design. It can reach speeds of 81 mph (130 ... Read full article.