AAV technology platform EHang Holdings has signed a memorandum of understanding regarding a potential partnership with Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO Group), a subsidiary of Swire Group and an aircraft engineering and maintenance company.

The two parties plan to cooperate in multiple areas such as manufacturing and assembly, continued airworthiness, digital platforms, aircraft maintenance and talent training. The focus is to co-develop systems and solutions that cater to the needs of continued airworthiness and after-sales maintenance services in preparation for the commercial operation of EHang's passenger-grade autonomous aerial vehicle EH216-S.

HAECO group director, airframe services Jacqueline Jiang says: “Advanced air mobility is a blooming new segment in the aviation industry. We are excited to take part and look forward to developing this together with EHang. With over 70 years of experience in the industry and offering a wide range of aviation products and services, HAECO is well positioned to support EHang and jointly develop the systems, standards and services required in advanced air mobility.”

EHang COO Xin Fang adds: “EHang is honoured to cooperate with HAECO Group, a partner with solid maintenance, repair and overhaul strength in the global aviation industry, to co-develop its AAV after-sales maintenance service system to provide our customers with higher quality and more efficient services across the globe, which will also facilitate the continued airworthiness of the EH216-S AAV after the completion of its airworthiness certification. Moreover, this partnership is a critical step EHang has taken for its strategic goal of becoming an urban air mobility platform operator, and it will also drive the emerging global UAM industry to explore a more comprehensive, efficient and sustainable operating service mechanism and ecosystem.”