EHang has conducted the first urban flight of a pilotless eVTOL aircraft in Europe, with its EH216-S taking off in Benidorm, Spain. The demonstration was part of the European Union’s U-ELCOME project, which aims to integrate advanced air mobility into controlled urban airspace.

The test flight took place in a designated U-space environment, where the EH216-S operated alongside 12 drones, all managed by Spain’s air navigation service provider, Enaire. The coordinated operation demonstrated the feasibility of integrating multiple unmanned aircraft safely into city airspace under European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations.

“Benidorm's simultaneous air taxi and drone demonstration highlighted the capability of U-space services, enhancing emergency response and operational efficiency in complex urban environments,” said Patricia Hervias, project manager at Eurocontrol. “Through close cooperation with EASA, AESA and other authorities, U-ELCOME contributes to regulatory standardisation and accelerates deployment.”

The event also marked a strategic collaboration agreement between EHang and Benidorm’s City Hall to advance urban air mobility development in the region. Mayor Antonio Pérez stated: “Benidorm is proud to be at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with EHang to make Benidorm a leader in next-generation mobility.”

With this successful test, EHang moves closer to real-world implementation of eVTOL operations, aligning with the EU’s broader efforts to establish a regulatory framework for integrating urban air mobility solutions.