The eVTOL Insights Podcast

In this episode, we speak with Adam Zeyn, Business Development lead for the 2025 Dubai Airshow. Adam shares how the event has rapidly evolved into one of the world’s premier platforms for advanced air mobility, drones, and eVTOL technologies, and why this year promises to be the most ambitious yet. Hear how Dubai has positioned itself as a global leader in electric aviation, from regulatory breakthroughs and pioneering infrastructure to high-profile partnerships with industry leaders like Joby, Archer and Skyports. Adam also reveals the show’s expanded AAM Pavilion, immersive demonstrations, sustainability initiatives and networking opportunities designed to connect innovators, investors and policymakers on a global stage. With themes like “The Future is Here”, Dubai Airshow 2025 will spotlight cutting-edge developments in urban air mobility, sustainable aviation, commercial space, and next-gen workforce development. From spectacular flying displays and drone shows to exclusive networking events and live entertainment, it’s an unmissable event shaping the future of flight. Discover why Dubai is at the forefront of aviation innovation and why Adam describes the 2025 Airshow in three words: “Transformative, Unmissable, Fire.”

In this episode, Jakob shares his journey from working in logistics and warehouse automation to founding Grasshopper Air Mobility in 2023, driven by a vision for sustainable, autonomous aerial mobility. Initially inspired by flying cars for commuters, he and his team pivoted to cargo operations after recognizing the steep certification costs and barriers facing passenger eVTOLs. Jakob reflects on key industry lessons and the company's strategy to leverage off-the-shelf, certified components rather than developing everything in-house. The company is firmly committed to sustainability, with a focus on electric and hybrid-hydrogen propulsion and ultra-quiet ducted fan technology. Looking ahead, Grasshopper is targeting certification between 2030–2031, with scaled prototypes beginning as early as 2026. Jakob also discusses the challenges of regulation, infrastructure integration, funding, and the importance of public acceptance for advanced air mobility to succeed globally.

In this episode, Adam shares exclusive updates on REGENT’s exciting development roadmap, including the progress of their full-scale prototype and the path towards commercial operations in 2027. He explains how Seagliders combine the speed of aircraft with the accessibility of maritime vessels, operating from existing dock infrastructure and offering passengers affordable, sustainable coastal transport. Listeners will hear how REGENT is: - Expanding its $10 billion order backlog with airlines, ferry operators, and energy companies. - Building strong ecosystem partnerships with regulators, infrastructure providers, and community leaders worldwide. - Unlocking new opportunities in key markets such as Hawaii, South Florida, the U.S. Northeast, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. - Differentiating Seagliders from traditional eVTOL aircraft with lower operating costs, greater passenger capacity, and synergies for multimodal transport at ports. Adam also dives into the importance of regulatory engagement with the U.S. Coast Guard and Lloyd’s Register, REGENT’s customer training programs, and how Seagliders could transform daily life by improving access to jobs, healthcare, and housing in coastal communities.

In this episode, Dr. Yuanyuan “Martin” Ding, shares his journey from working at leading aerospace companies to launching his own startup focused on developing an Autonomous Flight System (AFS) designed to boost safety, efficiency, and scalability in the low-altitude economy. The conversation discusses how Albatross.ai is tackling challenges around AI integration, sensor fusion, and real-time decision-making, as well as its collaborations with OEMs, operators, and regulators. Martin also reflects on the regulatory landscape in China, the global path toward aviation autonomy, and the opportunities AI can unlock for Advanced Air Mobility. Hear Martin’s entrepreneurial insights, the milestones Albatross.ai is targeting and his vision for how autonomy could reshape everyday transport in the next decade.

In this episode, Fahad Al Riyami talks about his company AeroVecto, an Oman-based startup developing a high-capacity hybrid eVTOL aircraft designed to transform urban mobility across the Middle East and beyond. Fahad shares the inspiration behind the company, its vision to create scalable shuttle networks that ease congestion in high-density cities, and how their 18-passenger hybrid design sets them apart from other players in the space. He also discusses the challenges of autonomy, infrastructure, and public acceptance, as well as how Oman and the wider region are positioning themselves as leaders in advanced air mobility. From his personal journey and passion for aviation to AeroVecto’s roadmap toward commercial deployment, this episode offers a fascinating look at one of the Middle East’s most ambitious eVTOL ventures.

In this episode, we speak with Furqan, CEO and co-founder of Sora Aviation, a UK-based startup pioneering the S1, a 30-seat battery-electric tiltrotor designed to make Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) truly affordable and accessible. Key Topics & Insights include: - Sora’s Origin Story – From early fascination with aviation to leading eVTOL programs at GKN, and why Furqan and co-founder Malcolm Foster set out to build a “flying bus” for the masses. - Mission & Vision – Tackling AAM’s biggest challenge: affordability. Why higher passenger capacity is the key to equitable access, not just serving VIPs. - Inside the S1 Aircraft – Battery-electric tiltrotor design, 30-seat capacity, low-noise optimizations, advanced safety redundancies, and innovative battery integration. - Market Focus – Airport shuttle routes as the launch market, with high demand, strong willingness to pay, and a proven historical precedent in large passenger helicopters. - Go-to-Market & Partnerships – Aircraft sales model with MRO, training, and battery services; early orders from South Korea’s Moviation and collaborations with UK universities and aerospace specialists. - Certification Path – Targeting UK CAA approval aligned with EASA SC-VTOL standards, paving the way for FAA and global certification. - Challenges & Public Perception – Overcoming skepticism about “flying buses” and shifting the conversation from luxury air taxis to everyday mobility. - Future Milestones – First full-scale rotor spin-up next year, first flight in 2028, and entry into service by 2031. - Myth-Busting – eVTOLs are not just electric helicopters—they target different missions and will evolve over time.

In this episode, Dan Sloat (Advanced Air Mobility Institute) and Ted Angel (National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence) share how they’re reviving the iconic race on October 12, 2025, exactly 100 years after its last run. Discover: - Why Springfield, Ohio was chosen as the host city. - How the race will spotlight electric and hybrid-electric aircraft. - The unique 60-nautical-mile course designed for today’s technology. - Plans for a four-day celebration including a job fair, STEM activities, and the National AAM Industry Forum. - Opportunities for student teams, industry players, and international pilots to take part.

In this episode, we welcome back Michael to explore Vertical's progress with its VX4 eVTOL aircraft and ambitious roadmap toward certification and commercial operations by 2028. Michael shares a behind-the-scenes look at how the VX4 prototype has been exceeding expectations in recent flight tests, showcasing exceptional stability, efficiency, and ultra-low noise performance. He dives into the technical and strategic decisions shaping the final aircraft design, from battery safety innovations to partnering with the UK CAA and EASA for high-standard certification. Listeners will gain insights into the meticulous engineering, operational learnings, and regulatory engagement that are de-risking Vertical’s journey to market. Michael also reflects on Vertical’s newly signed partnership with Bristow, a move that will enable scalable commercial operations through wet lease models—especially for airport shuttle services.

A recognized voice in both traditional and emerging aviation law, Philip brings a rare blend of experience, curiosity, and legal acumen to the evolving landscape of Advanced Air Mobility and drone operations. Philip discusses how aviation law is adapting to a world of eVTOL aircraft, autonomous flight, and beyond visual line of sight drone operations. He dives deep into legal challenges—from preemption battles between federal and local regulation, to privacy concerns, economic authority for new air carriers, and the looming issue of greenwashing in AAM marketing. Listeners will gain a rare legal perspective on how global aviation treaties may need to evolve, what it takes to become a certified operator in the U.S., and why access, education, and inclusivity are vital to building a more equitable air mobility future. Whether you're a law student, policy professional, AAM startup founder, or just curious about the rules that will shape the skies of tomorrow—this episode is a must-listen.

With over two decades of expertise in business aviation, sustainable mobility, and global aircraft operations, Toni shares the inspiring journey that led her to co-found one of the most exciting and disruptive companies in advanced air mobility. From her early ventures in drone development to forging strategic partnerships with major OEMs like Archer, Embraer, and BETA Technologies,Toni dives deep into the mission of Future Flight Global — creating a globally scalable, multimodal transportation network that connects air, land, and sea using electric and hybrid aircraft. She discusses the company’s ambitious plans for global deployment, community engagement, and how they are actively shaping the third revolution in aviation. Toni also opens up about the challenges and misconceptions facing the industry, the importance of public education, and why infrastructure, safety, and autonomy will be critical pillars in the years ahead. A passionate advocate for sustainability and inclusivity, Toni offers a compelling vision of a future where advanced air mobility becomes an everyday reality.

In this episode, Ed shares how UrbanLink is preparing to launch zero-emission, multimodal regional travel—combining eVTOL aircraft and sea gliders—across key hubs like Miami, San Juan, and Los Angeles by 2028. Ed offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities ahead, from FAA certification and infrastructure hurdles to customer experience, pricing strategies, and what sets UrbanLink apart in a rapidly evolving AAM market. With firm plans in place and partnerships underway, this episode is packed with insights on what it takes to be a first mover in advanced air mobility.

In this episode, Tim shares compelling insights into the regulatory, environmental, and public acceptance challenges that will shape the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). From the critical role of local government approvals and public acceptance to the complexity of energy access and sustainability impacts, Tim outlines what it will take to build scalable, 'value generative networks' for AAM. He also explores how noise and visual impacts, regulatory clarity, and community engagement are essential to earning trust and achieving long-term viability.

In this episode, Ken starts of by defining Pivotal's mission in the mission of the broader context of urban air mobility and personal aviation. He also explains the differences between Pivotal and other players in the eVTOL space, which includes Helix - its groundbreaking personal aircraft. We talk about balancing simplicity and safety and Pivotal's approach to battery technology, autonomy and redudancy systems. With all the flight testing, Ken shares the lessons learnt in working with regulators and where he sees policy going for ultralight and personal eVTOL aircraft. Ken also goes into details about training and onboarding for new Helix owners. and what the company's commercialisation timeline looks like for scaling production or expanding internationally.

In this episode, Louis goes into great detail about China's Low-Altitude Economy and provides a fascinating insight into how the country is preparing for Advanced Air Mobility. With more than 20 different OEMs currently building aircraft, Louis talks about the cities and regions where operations might begin in the coming years, but also what challenges the regulators have when working to integrate the aircraft into existing airspace. Louis also gives an honest perspective on how China is progressing at a rapid pace and why the country can be attractive to companies wanted to enter the Advanced Air Mobility market.

In this episode, Sue and Kurt give us a broad overview of the NASA's ATM-x Project and how it fits into the Advanced Air Mobility market. We talk about the main challenges NASA sees when integrating eVTOL aircraft into existing airspace and how ATM-x approaches the concept of scalable, automated air traffic management for urban air mobilty. We also ask Kurt and Sue's thoughts on vertiports with current airport infrastructure and what types of simulations are under way within the ATM-x program. Kurt describes a typical scenario or test use case for low-altitude air traffic and Sue answers how NASA is collaborating with the FAA, OEMs and industry partners.

In this episode, Megha shares more exciting updates about Eve's company roadmap and its eVTOL aircraft, as well as going into detail about the holistic approach it is taking when helping to build the future AAM ecosystem. We discuss what is in store for the rest of 2025, the exciting partnerships it has made across the world - including India, South Korea and Brazil - and Eve's relationship with Brazil's ANAC which focuses on the importance of close collaboration between regulators and certification bodies. As well as the aircraft, Megha talks about how Eve is approaching vertiport infrastructure and integration with existing urban environments, then the work towards building public trust in Advanced Air Mobility.

In this episode, Euan walks us through the design perspective when bringing eVTOL aircraft concepts to life, especially how designing for the sky differs from designing for the road. Euan talks about balancing form and function in electric or hybrid aircraft, and shares more details about the work Frank Stephenson Design is doing with Chinese eVTOL OEM AutoFlight. We talk about how emotion might play a role in the design of AAM aircraft and what the biggest human factor challenges might be when designing interiors and cabins, incluing how we envision accessibility and inclusivity. Euan also talks about how design can help normalise and build trust in these new aircraft and we ask him if he could design the ideal AAM experience, what they would like.

In this episode, Marc shares Electra's core mission and how its electric short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft fits into it. He walks us through its key features and explains the role hybrid-electric propulsion can play in balancing performance, range and sustainability. Marc also talks about what type of spaces could become new 'airports' and how Electra can help serve underserved and rural areas which lack access to traditional aviation. We also go into detail about certifcation and commercialisation, the biggest hurdles and how regional air mobility will evolve over the next decade. as well as the next steps in Electra's roadmap over the 12 - 18 months.

In this episode, Emily and Sergio share more details about Texas DOT and the role it is playing in the emerging Advanced Air Mobility market. The pair talk about the opportunities and challenges within the US state, what projects the team are working on to help bring the vision to life and how they think the next 2-3 years will pan out when integrating AAM in major cities. We also talk about public adoption, and how stakeholders can help educate future passengers on the benefits of traveling using new technologies.

In this episode, Carl introduces us to Jump Aero and his background in Advanced Air Mobility, before sharing the reasons why he set up the company. He goes into detail about the latest white paper and Jump Aero's solution, and then talks about the JA1 Pulse aircraft, which he describes as the 'fastest eVTOL for emergency response'. We also talk about emergency response as a critical business case and what Jump Aero's roadmap is looking like over the next 2 - 3 years.