Drones

Everett, WA, U.S.,22 April, 2024: magniX, the company powering the electric aviation revolution has announced that Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase 50 magni650 electric engines. magniX’s electric propulsion units (EPUs) will be used to electrify Harbour Air’s fleet, beginning with the De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver in 2026. The magni650s will also be used for third-party conversions. The agreement is a milestone in electric aviation and a significant next step in the industry-leading partnership between magniX and Harbour Air. In December 2019, the two companies made history when the eBeaver, a Harbour Air De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver retrofitted with a magniX electric engine, became the world’s first fully electric commercial aircraft to take flight. To date, the prototype eBeaver has flown 78 flights in preparation for the certification of the aircraft. Electrifying the Skies magniX is pioneering electric aviation, having powered historic flights by five different aircraft. Alongside the eBeaver, these include Eviation’s all-electric commuter airplane, Alice, and the world’s largest hydrogen-electric aircraft, Universal Hydrogen’s retrofitted De Havilland Dash 8. “Electrifying Harbour Air’s fleet with magniX’s engines sets us on a course to define the future of regional flight,” said Riona Armesmith, Chief Technology Officer of magniX. “The many flights that the eBeaver has now completed with magniX’s technology demonstrate that the electric age of aviation is here and bringing it to the marketplace is growing rapidly closer. As we mark Earth Day, we recognize the urgency of solutions such as this in answering the climate challenge.” “We are excited to accelerate the adoption of electric aviation technology and further our journey towards a sustainable future”, says Bert van der Stege, CEO of Harbour Air. “The agreement with magniX underscores our commitment to revolutionize commercial aviation with electric propulsion and to pave the way for cleaner, quieter, and more efficient air travel.”

Bangalore, 15th April 2024: Bengaluru-based aerospace components manufacturer, JJG Aero, has secured $12 million (Rs 100 crore) in inaugural funding from CX Partners. The funds will be used primarily for increasing its manufacturing capacity at its new facility, further vertical integration and other corporate initiatives. Established in 2008, JJG Aero specializes in manufacturing build-to-print high-precision machined components, with in-house special process finishing capabilities. While the Company is primarily focussed on building its business in commercial aerospace segment, its diverse capabilities are put to use with its customers in automotive and industrial segments. The Company’s prestigious clients include marquee American & European OEMs and Tier-1 vendors. “We have spent the last decade in building best-in-class capabilities, processes, compliance standards, customer relationships and obtaining requisite approvals and certifications, and we are now in the right place to grow rapidly. The aerospace supply chain is facing all-time high demand from aircraft manufacturers, which the legacy vendors in the Western world are struggling to meet. The global geopolitical issues, economic stability and Government support make India ideally placed to benefit from this. With our strengths and value proposition, we see ourselves emerging as a key player in the aerospace ecosystem. India has emerged as an attractive destination for sourcing components and parts by global leaders and we are excited to be selected by so many marquee clients as a strategic growth vendor” said Anuj Jhunjhunwala, CEO, JJG Aero. “We are thrilled to invest in JJG Aero, our first in this segment. JJG Aero has demonstrated remarkable growth, with a CAGR of 35% over the last three years. This investment will enable JJG Aero not only to continue on its growth path through capacity addition but also upgrade quality of earnings by focusing on higher value-added components. Indian businesses have proven ability to provide high quality products and services as an outsourcing partner to their customers. With strong industry tailwinds, we believe that aero-parts and component manufacturing is emerging as one more segment in India’s manufacturing outsourcing story. With its foray into manufacture of aero-engine components, we believe JJG Aero is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities andfurther solidify its presence in the market.” – Vivek Chhachhi, Managing Partner, CX Partners From simple 2-axis to complex 5-axis machining, JJG Aero offers a wide range of manufacturing services, complemented by over 30 NADCAP-approved special processes, including electroplating, anodizing, paint, and NDT. Moreover, the company provides assembly, testing, and other value-added services to its esteemed client base. JJG Aero has 3 fully integrated manufacturing facilities in the Bommasandra-Jigani area, near Bangalore,in Karnataka, ably run by a team of 700 people. JJG Aero is setting up an additional facility dedicated to the aerospace segment.

SINGAPORE,19th Feb,2024: Eve Air Mobility and Yugo Global Industries, a Singapore-based aviation company, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to study the potential for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and eVTOL flights in Southeast Asia. Yugo is a private aviation network established by aviation experts, with a global presence and a focus on Southeast Asia. In its mission to support regional Air Mobility innovation, Yugo benefits from the support of partner Air Transport operators such as PhilJets and Helistar, two of the region’s solid key players. Together, Eve and Yugo will specifically focus on the potential infrastructure requirements to support eVTOL operations including regulations. The companies will also analyse service center and vertiport size and capabilities, ground handling and other areas as needed. “We are looking forward to collaboratively working with Yugo to study and help define the UAM ecosystem in Singapore and Southeast Asia,” said Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “Our goal is to also understand and define a business model that not only enables eVTOL flights in the region, but also advances the overall mobility ecosystem.” “We strongly believe that Southeast Asian economies will greatly contribute to the development of the eVTOL and UAM industry,” said Thierry Tea, Chairman of Yugo. “Our collaboration with Eve will offer valuable insights into the essential requirements for regional air mobility development.” Eve has been very active and committed to helping introduce Urban Air Mobility in the Asia Pacific region. The company is already working with various key stakeholders across the region to collaboratively build the ecosystems and explore future operations in multiple countries. As Eve supports the exploration of eVTOL development in Southeast Asia, the region’s aviation infrastructure is rapidly advancing. The Philippines is constructing the New Manila International Airport by San Miguel Corporation, while OCIC Group is building Cambodia’s Phnom Penh Techo International Airport (TIA), set to open in 2025. To reduce carbon emissions, these modern and sustainable new airports, including Phnom Penh’s TIA designed by Foster and Partners, are exploring charging stations and flight routes for flying taxis and electric jets. Singapore is the first mover in Southeast Asia for UAM and this can provide neighboring countries a template to support further ecosystem development in the region. For instance, OCIC Group, is partnering with Changi Airport and Singapore Airline Engineering. The ongoing innovation and progress in emerging countries stand to gain from eVTOLs, next-gen aircraft and evolving infrastructure. Yugo’s commitment is to support regional eVTOL innovation and its network includes Southeast Asian operators such as PhilJets in the Philippines and Helistar in Cambodia. Eve has continued to advance the development of its eVTOL aircraft. The company has begun construction of its full-scale prototype and is on schedule to begin testing the aircraft in 2024. Featuring a lift+cruise design to minimize moving parts and reduce potential cost of ownership, Eve’s eVTOL features eight lift rotors to assist in takeoff and landing and one push rotor for cruise. With a range of 100km (60 miles) and traveling at speeds of 100 knots, Eve’s aircraft currently leads the industry with 2,850 orders. The aircraft is scheduled to enter service in 2026. In addition to developing its eVTOL aircraft, Eve will offer its customers instant access to an existing worldwide network of service centers through its relationship with Embraer, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of aircraft. The company is also developing a range of solutions to ensure that it is able to support its customers on Day 1 ranging from flight operations solutions and network optimization to data management and eVTOL health monitoring. “These types of collaborations and agreements are a critical first step toward pursuing eVTOL flights. We are looking forward to working with Yugo and other key stakeholders as we begin this project,” said Bordais.

The global commercial drone services market is anticipated to achieve a valuation of US$ 5.8 billion in 2023. Over the forecast period spanning from 2023 to 2033, the market is poised to demonstrate a noteworthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.8%, ultimately reaching US$ 23.0 billion by the conclusion of 2033. Commercial drone services have experienced widespread adoption across diverse industry verticals, including energy, construction, agriculture, real estate, and others. The market’s growth has been spurred by the increasing registration of commercial drones and governmental endorsements for drone utilization in commercial applications. Key services provided by commercial drone service providers encompass inspection, mapping & surveying, delivery, spraying & seeding, photography & filming. The market has witnessed substantial demand for package delivery, particularly driven by the robust development of the e-commerce industry. Moreover, the cost and time efficiency offered by drones, compared to traditional methods in inspection, mapping, filming, and similar applications, is expected to generate lucrative opportunities for market expansion. Key Insights from Market Analysis: 1. The energy and construction sectors collectively account for over 30.0% of the demand share in the commercial drone services market. 2. The market is projected to experience a CAGR of 14.8% during the forecast period (2023-2033). 3. North America is anticipated to lead the market, contributing to 29.0% of the total market share. 4. Regionally, the demand for commercial drone services is expected to witness growth at CAGRs of 15.1% and 15.7% in Europe and East Asia, respectively. “Infrastructure development to exhibit the demand for commercial drone services,” says a Fact.MR analyst. Market Advancements In the commercial drone services sector, the business landscape reflects a consolidation trend amidst intense competition. Key industry players are adopting both organic and non-organic strategies, exemplified by AeroVisionz’s introduction of aerial drone photography and videography services, to establish a significant presence in the market. Moreover, these players are actively expanding their customer base by targeting various end-users and regions. With a significant surge in the registration of commercial drones, the demand for commercial drone services is experiencing notable fragmentation in the region. In the United States, the registration count has reached approximately 870,389 drones by 2022, with around 38% being designated as commercial drones. The country showcases a growing trend of technological advancements and widespread adoption across diverse industry verticals. E-commerce giants such as Amazon are actively spearheading initiatives to introduce drone package delivery services, aiming to provide cost-effective and time-efficient delivery solutions in the region. Additionally, online food delivery platforms are strategically venturing into the use of commercial drones for delivering food, further contributing to the overall growth of the market in the country. Competitive Scenario Prominent players in the commercial drone services market include Aerial Drone Solution, Aerial Vision Ltd., AERIUM Analytics, Aerodrome, Aero Enterprises, Astral Aerial Solutions, Celestis, Cyberhawk, Dronegy, DJM Aerial Solutions, Drone Base, Drone Dispatch, Drone Evolution, DDC Smart Inspection, EagleHawk, and Enterprise UAS. The market exhibits a high level of competition as drone services gain increasing popularity across various industry verticals. Key market participants are strategically launching new services and engaging in mergers and acquisitions to maintain competitiveness. This trend contributes significantly to the substantial growth observed in the commercial drone services market. Notable instances include: 1. In April 2022, Wing, a prominent drone delivery company in the United States, introduced the pioneering commercial drone delivery services in the country. 2. In September 2022, Valqari made strategic strides by acquiring IDU Group, aiming to establish a drone delivery infrastructure for mail, packages, and other items using drone technology. Key Companies Profiled Key suppliers of commercial drone services around the world include Aerial drone solution, Aerial Vision Ltd, AERIUM Analytics, Aerodrome, Aero Enterprises, Astral Aerial Solutions, Celestis, Cyberhawk, Dronegy, DJM Aerial Solutions, Drone Base, Drone Dispatch, Drone Evolution, DDC Smart Inspection, EagleHawk, Enterprise UAS etc. (These insights are based on a report on Commercial Drone Services Market by Fact.MR.)

Paris Air Show, 18.06.2023: Eve Air Mobility (“Eve”) named the first three suppliers for its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Nidec Aerospace LLC, a joint venture between Nidec Corporation and Embraer, will provide the electric propulsion system, BAE Systems will provide an advanced energy storage system and DUC Hélice Propellers will supply the rotors and propellers for the eVTOL.“The announcement of the first suppliers is a key milestone in the development of our eVTOL aircraft,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “As we advance toward entry into service, our goal is to make sure that we produce and deliver a mature aircraft that not only exceeds expectations but enables our customers to operate safely and efficiently with the lowest cost of operation.” Nidec Aerospace LLC, a joint venture between Japan’s Nidec Corporation (TSE: 6594; OTC US: NJDCY) and Brazil’s Embraer (B3: EMBR3, NYSE: ERJ), will develop the electric propulsion system for Eve’s eVTOL. Nidec Corporation, the world’s leading comprehensive motor manufacturer, will be backed by Embraer’s more than 50-year history of aerospace experience to design, certify, produce, and commercialize next-generation electric propulsion systems based on well-proven technologies. “We are excited to have Eve as our launch customer for Nidec Aerospace’s new electric propulsion system,” said Michael Briggs, senior vice president and president of the Motion & Energy Business Unit at Nidec. “With our cutting-edge technologies, Nidec Aerospace and Eve together are well-positioned to drive and accelerate advances in electrified urban air mobility towards a more sustainable future.” BAE System’s energy storage system will be integrated into Eve’s eVTOL and will allow the aircraft to efficiently operate with zero emissions and low noise. The new energy storage system leverages the company’s more than 25 years of experience in providing dependable electric power and propulsion for transit buses and other heavy-duty vehicles. That experience combined with their history of developing flight critical control systems for aerospace is ideal for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) applications that depend on safety, reliability and efficiency. “BAE Systems is leading the development of advanced technology solutions and systems that will help create a more sustainable future in aviation,” said Ehtisham Siddiqui, vice president and general manager of Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems. “We are delighted to support Eve Air Mobility with our innovative energy storage system for their eVTOL aircraft.” DUC Hélice Propellers will supply the rotors for the eight lift motors and the cruise propeller. Based in France and also present in the United States, the company has more than 25 years of experience and expertise in the analysis, design, development, manufacture and maintenance of propellers, rotors, fans & others carbon composite aeronautical accessories acquired through the multiple aviation programs in which it participates. “We are extremely honored to have been selected by EVE Air Mobility as the supplier of the rotors for the eight lift motors and the cruise propeller for their production vehicle,” said Duqueine Vincent, president and founder of DUC Hélices Propellers. “This recognition is a testimony to experience and expertise in the analysis, design, development, manufacture and maintenance of carbon composite propellers, rotors, fans and other aeronautical accessories. We are grateful to EVE for putting their trust in us.” During the past year, the company has been working closely with certification authorities to define certification requirements while also continuing to engage with customers to understand how they will operate the aircraft and incorporate their feedback. The company has continued to advance its testing phase as part of maturing its eVTOL design. Eve recently completed wind tunnel and propeller tests and began testing its vertical lift rotors aboard a new custom truck-mounted platform in May. Eve has continued to update the aircraft to match its vehicle design to customer needs with a focus on efficiency, safety, reliability, sustainability and cost of operation. Eve’s eVTOL aircraft utilizes a lift+cruise configuration with eight dedicated propellers for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly on cruise, with no change in position of these components during flight. The latest concept includes an electric pusher powered by dual electric motors that provide propulsion redundancy while ensuring high performance and safety. While offering numerous advantages including lower cost of operation, fewer parts, optimized structures and systems, it has been developed to offer efficient thrust with low sound. “Eve has taken a ‘building blocks’ approach to further enhance the maturity of the technology and its eVTOL,” said Alice Altissimo, vice president of program management and operation of Eve. “We continue to make very good progress and we are looking forward to working with these new suppliers as we accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable air travel.” Eve expects to name additional component suppliers including flight-control systems, avionics, airframe and power-management systems in the future. The company plans to start the assembly of its first full-scale eVTOL prototype during the second half of 2023, followed by the test campaign in 2024. Eve’s eVTOL is scheduled to begin deliveries and enter service in 2026.

Paris Air Show, 18.06.2023: VoltAero unveiled the first Cassio 330 electric-hybrid aircraft, marking a major step toward aviation’s goal of decarbonization and sustainable mobility by introducing the first member in an airplane family that brings together a clean-sheet airframe design with a proprietary hybrid propulsion system. The no. 1 Cassio 330 prototype is shown on VoltAero’s Paris Air Show exhibit stand at Le Bourget Airport. “Today marks a true milestone for electric aviation, as VoltAero delivers on its promise to take an all-new approach for quiet, efficient and eco-friendly transportation that is based on a hybrid design combining thermal and electric propulsion for maximum flight safety,” said Jean Botti, VoltAero’s CEO and Chief Technical Officer. “I want to thank my VoltAero team for its dedication and tireless work in reaching this historic moment, as well as express my appreciation to our suppliers and partners for their commitment to Cassio.” The no. 1 Cassio 330 prototype is targeted to perform its maiden flight in late 2023. This aircraft will be used to validate the overall airframe configuration and aerodynamics of VoltAero’s all-new design for Cassio, and will be powered by a four-cylinder Kawasaki Motors thermal engine derived from the Japanese company’s proven motorcycle engine products. It will be followed by the no. 2 Cassio 330’s maiden flight in the second quarter of 2024. This aircraft will be used for the airworthiness certification program, and is to be equipped with VoltAero’s full-up hybrid propulsion unit – composed of the four-cylinder Kawasaki Motors thermal engine (with a peak power rating of 165 kW) and a Safran ENGINeUSTM smart electric motor (with a peak power rating of 180 kW). VoltAero has selected AKIRA Technologies for the integration and validation of Cassio’s hybrid propulsion unit. This French company – which is specialized in the design and production of energy conversion systems and test benches – has been given the responsibility by VoltAero for design and development of the Cassio hybrid propulsion unit’s gearbox, along with the unit’s mechanical integration and ground testing, as well as test/adaptation of the Kawasaki thermal engine and Safran electric motor. The no. 2 Cassio 330 prototype also will have the full-definition avionics suite from Avidyne, integrating a glass cockpit with new-generation Quantum 14-inch displays for single pilot operation, and which is specifically designed for the connected aircraft environment. Based on its agreement with VoltAero, the U.S.-based Avidyne will perform exclusive development in tailoring the avionics for the power management of Cassio’s hybrid propulsion unit. At the Paris Air Show, VoltAero’s exhibit stand includes the Avidyne cockpit panel configuration, highlighting its dual PFD/MFD (Primary Flight Display/Multifunction Display) layout with 4K resolution. The Cassio 330 will have a four/five-seat interior configuration, followed by the six-seat Cassio 480 with a combined electric-hybrid propulsion power of 480 kilowatts, and the Cassio 600 – which is to be sized at a 10/12-seat capacity with electric-hybrid propulsion power of 600 kilowatts. The Cassio 480 will utilize Kawasaki Motors’ six-cylinder thermal engine. Cassio will fly with sustainable aviation fuel and hydrogen VoltAero also is pursuing the application of sustainable fuels for Cassio’s hybrid propulsion unit, including biofuel and hydrogen. Currently, VoltAero’s Cassio S testbed aircraft is performing flight validations of VoltAero’s hybrid power unit with biofuel. And as part of its Paris Air Show exhibit, VoltAero is displaying a Kawasaki Motors thermal engine that operates with liquid hydrogen, which will be used on Cassio 330 aircraft in the future. The Cassio family will be a highly capable and reliable product line for regional commercial operators, air taxi/charter companies, private owners, as well as in utility-category service for cargo, postal delivery and medical evacuation (Medevac) applications. By integrating VoltAero’s patented electric-hybrid propulsion system into the purpose-designed airframe, Cassio will deliver an order of magnitude higher performance as compared to the current competition, and provide significantly lower operational costs. The VoltAero propulsion concept is unique: Cassio aircraft will utilize an electric motor in the aft fuselage-mounted hybrid propulsion unit for all-electric power during taxi, takeoff, primary flight (if the distance traveled is less than 150 km.), and landing. The hybrid feature – with an internal combustion engine – comes into play as a range extender, recharging the batteries while in flight. Additionally, this hybrid element serves as a backup in the event of a problem with the electric propulsion, ensuring true fail-safe functionality. VoltAero will assemble the Cassio aircraft in a purpose-built facility at the Rochefort Charente-Maritime Airport in France’s Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

14th June 2023,Melbourne: Eve Air Mobility and United Airlines announced plans to bring Urban Air Mobility (UAM) to San Francisco by launching electric commuter flights throughout the Bay Area. The announcement is an important first step as both companies will be working with local and state officials, infrastructure, energy and technology providers to ensure the appropriate infrastructure is in place to introduce electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft flights. The companies are also working together to identify origin and destination areas and the future route network for Urban Air Mobility (UAM). “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 U.S.,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “The Bay Area is perfect for eVTOL flights given its size, traffic, focus on sustainability, innovation and commitment to add other options for mobility.” “Urban Air Mobility has the potential to revolutionize how United customers work, live, and travel,” said Michael Leskinen, President of United Airlines VenturesSM. “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 $15 million investment in Eve Air Mobility and a conditional purchase agreement for 200 eVTOLs plus 200 options, part of its strategy to invest in cutting-edge technologies as the airline stakes out is position as a leader in investing in aviation sustainability and innovation technologies. United’s investment in Eve was driven in part by confidence in the potential growth opportunities in the UAM market and Eve’s unique relationship with Embraer, a trusted aircraft manufacturer with a proven track record of building and certifying aircraft over the company’s 53-year history. A key piece of the relationship includes access to Embraer’s global service centers, parts warehouses and field service technicians, paving the way for a reliable operation. Upon entry into service, United could have its entire eVTOL fleet serviced by Eve’s service and support network. Eve’s eVTOL will offer United’s customers a quick, economical and lower-carbon way to get to its hub airports and commute in dense urban environments, as compared with conventional air taxis and other forms of traditional public transportation. Eve’s eVTOL is 100% electric and has a range of 60 miles (100 kilometers) allowing it to complete a variety of urban air mobility missions in the San Francisco Bay Area. Its human-centered design better ensures the comfort of passengers, the pilot and the community by minimizing noise. The aircraft features a lift + cruise configuration with dedicated rotors for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly on cruise, with no components required to change position during flight. It will be piloted at launch but evolving towards uncrewed operations in the future. In addition to a new, efficient transportation option, Eve noted that eVTOL flights in the Bay Area are expected to have a positive economic impact on the community including new employment opportunities. Positions ranging from pilots and aircraft service technicians to training and technical services are among the numerous roles that will be needed as eVTOL flights are introduced and expand. The development of the necessary infrastructure to support eVTOL operations is also expected to contribute value and employment opportunities to the community. Eve’s eVTOL is scheduled to enter service in 2026.

22nd May 2023; Chennai India: In a step towards boosting the manufacturing of indigenous drones in India, Garuda Aerospace and Naini Aerospace engineering limited (NAeL), a wholly owned subsidiary of HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence has signed a joint development partnership. The joint partnership will enable Garuda to manufacture Advanced Precision Drones on Indian Soil for various applications. The drones will be able to carry a payload of around 25 kg. Speaking on the development, Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO, Garuda Aerospace said, “Our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Vision of achieving the milestone of 1 lakh Made in India drones by 2024 is well on track. Our partnership with Naini Aerospace engineering limited (NAeL) (a wholly owned subsidiary of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) is a natural next step for us. Our Drone Yatra has also been a grand success and we have pre-booked over 7000 drones at Rs. 4.5 lakhs each. Partnerships with Government PSUs are critical given the knowledge and experience they possess to scale up production. We will continue to stay focused, and partner with industry leaders that will help us achieve our PM’s vision.” Furthermore, Garuda Aerospace recently partnered with BEML at Aero India for drone manufacturing at their Mysore facility and initiated a massive indigenization campaign. The company has also collaborated with 120 local suppliers with the objective of reducing reliance on foreign imports of drone parts, components, and UAV subsystems. Speaking on the partnership, R.R. Thakur, Chief Executive Officer, Naini Aerospace engineering limited (NAeL) added, “We are very excited to be working along with Garuda Aerospace on the rapidly evolving drone sector. Our experience with the production of Helicopter structures was launched on 11th July 2018 in a newly constructed Aero-structure hangar equipped with State of Art facilities. The first batch of helicopter structures duly cleared by the Director General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA) was delivered to the Helicopter Division of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited on 22nd November 2018. NAeL has now reached the level of full-fledged operationalization with proven capabilities in the field of production of Aero-structures and Aircraft loom manufacturing. Currently, key managerial positions are occupied by experienced professionals deputed from HAL to ensure compliance of operations to the Aerospace Standards so we are confident to bring in knowledge and experience to jointly develop drones along with Garuda Aerospace”. Naini Aerospace engineering Limited (NAeL) was incorporated in December 2016 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Naini Aerospace has a vision of sustainable manufacturing operations in the Aerospace and Aviation Sector and is situated in the Naini industrial area of Prayagraj developed by UP State Industrial Development Corporation.

Chennai, May 23, 2023: The ePlane Company,developer of Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircrafts, has received Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on 22nd May, 2023. The DOA is a crucial first step in the aircraft certification process, and it paves the way for ePlane to begin commercial production of its e200 eVTOL aircraft.The signing was done by Vikram Dutt, Director General, DGCA and IITM Director, Prof V Kamakoti. Also present were, Indranil Chakraborthy, Deputy Director General of DGCA, Meenu Kapil, Director – Aircraft Engineering and Jai Simha, Director, DGCA Chennai. The DGCA team also visited the National Centre for Combustion Research and Development (NCCRD) at the IIT Madras Campus to gain insights into ePlane’s ongoing work and progress. Subsequently, they toured the ePlane Manufacturing Facility followed by the Director General’s address and a small celebration to mark the occasion at the IITM Discovery Campus in Thaiyur. “We are delighted to receive the DOA certificate from the DGCA,” said Prof. Satyanarayanan Chakravarthy, Founder and CEO, The ePlane Company. “This is a major milestone for our company, it is a crucial first step in the aircraft certification process and paves another stone on the path towards commercialisation of our e200 eVTOL aircraft. It gives us immense pleasure to announce that ePlane is the first startup in India to be approved as a Design Organisation and one of the very few private entities for complete aircraft design.” “The certification brings us a step closer towards our mission to ensure safe passenger flights in India and the world. We are grateful for the support of DGCA and IIT Madras in helping us to achieve this milestone.” The DOA serves as a crucial initial step for The ePlane Company, signifying its capabilities to meet the stringent standards set by the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation, allowing the company’s flying electric taxis to take to the skies. With the DOA Certificate in hand, ePlane is poised to continue its groundbreaking work in developing safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly aircraft for the future. Vikram Dev Dutt, Director General, DGCA said, “We are thrilled to witness the rapid growth and vast potential of the UAV and eVTOL ecosystem in India. ePlane has demonstrated remarkable commitment to meeting stringent aircraft certification norms, reflecting their exceptional calibre and innovative approach. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire ePlane team on achieving this significant milestone, and I am confident in the future success of ePlane and its remarkable e200 aircraft.” Prof Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras said, “I am delighted to be a part of this historic moment and I commend the nurturing ecosystem at IIT Madras, which supports both educational initiatives and startup incubation.”