Order Also Includes Eve’s Urban Air Traffic Management Software

Helicopters Inc. recently signed a letter of intent with Eve Air Mobility to purchase up to 50 of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The agreement also includes service support and Eve’s urban air traffic management (ATM) system, Vector.

“Helicopters Inc. is a recognized leader, safely operating aircraft in more than 30 metropolitan areas throughout the U.S., and we are excited to add such a credible vertical lift operator to our list of customers,” expressed Megha Bhatia, chief commercial officer of Eve Air Mobility. “We look forward to working with them on deploying our all-electric eVTOL aircraft as part of their extensive U.S. operation.”

The pair’s relationship began in 2022 with a collaboration in Chicago, Illinois. They utilized one of Helicopter Inc.’s rotorcraft to simulate future eVTOL capabilities. Now, Eve and Helicopters Inc. will be teaming up to define the target market, maintenance needs, additional partners, required infrastructure, and other targets to ensure efficient transitions to eVTOL aircraft.

Under the new letter of intent, Helicopters Inc. will have the ability to purchase up to 50 Eve eVTOLs and utilize Eve’s TechCare, a full portfolio of customer support services for eVTOLs. It will also have access to Vector, which is an urban ATM software designed to manage the unique air traffic challenges presented by Advanced Air Mobility operations.

Eve unveiled its first full-scale eVTOL prototype in July. The aircraft utilizes eight propellers for vertical flight and fixed wings for cruise, meaning no components change positions during flight. It has an electric pusher powered by dual electric motors, producing an estimated 60 nm range.

The manufacturer aims to produce five additional ‘conforming prototypes’ using the same components and qualities of its production design. These will all undergo individual evaluations and flight test campaigns.

“The eVTOL aircraft will provide numerous advantages including competitive cost of operation, fewer parts and optimized structures and systems, not to mention a lower noise footprint and environmental benefits,” explained Tom Wagner, president of Helicopters Inc.

Eve has signed letters of intent for almost 3,000 eVTOLs since its launch.

FMI: www.eveairmobility.com