AIR, a prominent Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of midsize electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has announced a strategic expansion into the cargo and logistics sector with the unveiling of its new unmanned AIR ONE Cargo eVTOL. Over the past year, AIR has not only retained its leadership in the general aviation market but has also penetrated the cargo segment, securing several deals to supply its flagship unmanned eVTOL for logistical applications. This move culminated in AIR concluding 2023 with over $1 million in revenue, with these additional purchase orders significantly enhancing the company’s financial outlook for the upcoming years.
In response to robust market demand and backed by firm purchase orders, AIR has developed these unmanned eVTOLs specifically tailored for cargo use, alongside its manned variants intended for personal use. This strategic diversification has resulted in exponential revenue growth, underscoring AIR’s potential as it continues to scale up mass production of eVTOLs.
The AIR ONE Cargo is a testament to the maturation of AIR’s product lineup and design philosophy, accumulating valuable flight hours that contribute to safety verification. Moreover, the cargo model plays a pivotal role in achieving scaled production volume, benefiting from AIR’s automotive-based production techniques and automated manufacturing systems.
“Venturing into this new market with AIR ONE Cargo is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the integration of eVTOLs into all spheres of daily life, for a variety of use cases,” remarked Rani Plaut, CEO and co-founder of AIR. This model is designed to meet a variety of logistical needs, featuring a capacity to take off and land vertically while transporting a 550-pound payload. Its capabilities are complemented by a practical long range and speed comparable to the manned variant of AIR ONE.
The company also highlighted its recent engagement with the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX Agility Prime program, aimed at propelling flight testing and additional R&D efforts within the United States. AIR continues to accumulate significant flight test hours with its full-scale prototypes, having successfully completed all phases of flight. With 1,170 reservations for the AIR ONE personal use vehicles and a growing waiting list, AIR anticipates beginning deliveries to consumers post aircraft certification.
About AIR: Founded by Chen Rosen, Netanel Goldberg, and Rani Plaut, AIR is at the forefront of transforming everyday mobility with its innovative aerospace technology blended with the robustness of automotive technology. In addition to pioneering manned eVTOLs for personal use, AIR’s expansion into unmanned aerial cargo delivery is set to enhance the efficiency of global logistics operations. For more information, visit: https://www.airev.aero/.