EHang Holdings Limited has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with the China Academy of Civil Aviation Science and Technology (CAST) to jointly advance the low-altitude economy. The partnership, witnessed by Hefei municipal leaders and senior executives from both parties, aims to deepen collaboration across the entire industry value chain.
This alliance brings together EHang’s pioneering work in aircraft research and development, airworthiness certification, and commercial operations with CAST’s robust scientific research capabilities in aviation safety and regulation. The collaboration will focus on six key areas: flight safety, operational support, route management, ecosystem development, technological cooperation, and policy and standards formulation. Specific initiatives include joint innovation in new aviation systems, airworthiness compliance verification, establishing operational standards, developing operator training systems, and designing vertiport layouts and flight procedures.
A primary objective is to accelerate the commercialization and scaled operation of civil unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. By integrating resources and sharing technical expertise, the partners seek to optimize the low-altitude operational ecosystem, address challenges in regulatory frameworks, and enhance China’s global competitiveness in advanced air mobility. The collaboration is also expected to drive technological innovation and support the formulation of critical industry regulations and standards.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership. The President of CAST noted it as a concrete step to implement national strategic initiatives, while EHang’s Chief Operating Officer stated it marks a significant move for the company in innovation and commercial operations. Prior to the signing, the CAST delegation visited the Hefei Urban Air Mobility Operation Center and witnessed a demonstration flight of the EH216-S eVTOL aircraft, laying a solid foundation for future cooperation.
