Eve Air Mobility's eVTOL Prototype Takes to the Skies in Uncrewed First Flight.

Eve Air Mobility, a subsidiary of Embraer, achieved a major milestone. The company completed the first uncrewed full-scale flight of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) prototype. This inaugural flight took place on December 19, 2025. It happened at the Embraer test facility in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil. The successful hover flight officially began the aircraft’s flight test campaign. This marks a critical step toward commercializing the Urban Air Mobility market.

Flight Test Milestones

The initial flight validated key aircraft systems. This included the fifth-generation fly-by-wire controls. It also confirmed the integration of the fixed-pitch lifter rotors. The prototype behaved as predicted in company models. Engineers captured high-fidelity data during the test. This data will guide the program’s next development phases. The aircraft uses a lift + cruise configuration. This design features eight dedicated rotors for vertical lift. It also has a fixed wing and a pusher propeller for efficient cruise flight. This configuration favors safety and efficiency. The company plans hundreds of flights throughout 2026. These tests will expand the flight envelope. They will progress toward full wingborne operations.

Prototype Details

• The prototype is remotely controlled and uncrewed.
• It is designed to carry four passengers plus a pilot.
• Future uncrewed operations could allow for six passengers.
• The estimated range is 60 miles (100 km).

Path to Certification and Market Impact

Eve Air Mobility is moving quickly toward certification. The company plans to manufacture six conforming prototypes. These will be used for the broader flight test campaign. 2027 entry into service is the current target. Brazil's ANAC is the primary certifying authority. Eve is also actively engaged with other global regulators. This includes the FAA and EASA. Their goal is to ensure international validation.

This successful eVTOL prototype first flight signals maturity in the advanced air mobility ecosystem. The company holds letters of intent for nearly 3,000 eVTOLs. This substantial order book highlights strong market confidence. The development focuses on a low noise footprint. This is crucial for community acceptance in urban environments. The Urban Air Mobility market requires a holistic approach. Eve is also developing air traffic management software. This will help scale future air taxi operations. The milestone is a significant step for all commercial aviation news stakeholders.