The Abu Dhabi-based manufacturer, Monarch Airplane Manufacturing, and the China-based EHang Holding, an autonomous aerial vehicle (AAV) technology platform company, have signed a partnership agreement to establish first facility in the Middle East and Africa to manufacture and operate sustainable electric-powered aircraft and drones for passengers and cargo transportation in Abu Dhabi.
The announcement is in line with the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy’s initiatives, including Industry 4.0’s innovative technologies, new circular economy regulatory framework as well as new green policies and incentives to continue its transition towards a smart, circular, and sustainable economy.
The cooperation aims to manufacture sustainable electric aircrafts and drones, establish a command-and-control center to manage the urban air mobility autonomously and build infrastructure, vertiports (take-off and landing platforms), and facilities for operating electric aircrafts and drones, providing opportunities to qualify and train Emirati talents.
The project contributes to revitalizing markets and supporting local products by facilitating flow of goods and merchandise to sales outlets, ports, and airports, and enhances seamless trade.
It will help in establishing advanced infrastructure for vertiports and autonomous flight management system operated by artificial intelligent (AI), supported by techniques of sustainable and electric-powered commercial aircrafts and drones, through cooperation and partnership with local entities to enable Abu Dhabi to adopt urban aviation technologies. The project which focuses on improving smart and sustainable mobility will enhance Abu Dhabi’s position as the smartest city in the Middle East and Africa region.