Eve Air Mobility and United Airlines have announced plans to launch electric commuter flights throughout the Bay Area in San Francisco.
The two companies will now work with local and state officials, as well as infrastructure, energy and technology providers to ensure the required infrastructure is in place for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to operate in the city.
They will also collaborate on identifying origin and destination areas for this network.
Andre Stein, Co-CEO of Eve Air Mobility said:Our shared goal is to provide residents and visitors to the San Francisco Bay area with efficient and cost-competitive transportation in one of the most densely populated urban areas in the US. The Bay Area is perfect for eVTOL flights given its size, traffic, focus on sustainability, innovation and commitment to add other options for mobility.
In 2022, United invested 15 million USD in Eve Air Mobility and signed a conditional purchase agreement for 200 eVTOLs, with an additional 200 as options.
Eve’s eVTOL is fully electric and has a range of 60 miles (100 kilometres). This model is scheduled to enter service in 2026 and will be piloted at launch, before evolving towards uncrewed operations in the future.
These aircraft are expected to offer United’s customers an efficient and lower-carbon way to travel to and from its hub airports and commute in dense urban environments.
In addition, the airline is also working with Archer Aviation to launch eVTOL flights in Chicago and New York City.
Michael Leskinen, President of United Airlines VenturesSM said;Urban Air Mobility has the potential to revolutionize how United customers work, live, and travel. Eve’s proposed route is a critical first step towards making this all-electric and quiet commute a reality for Bay Area residents.
