China Southern Airlines is preparing to operate EHang's EH216-S eVTOL aircraft for commercial purposes in the Zhuhai area through a new partnership with the manufacturer. On July 1, the General Aviation division of the airline signed a memorandum of understanding with Guangzhou-based EHang to collaborate on flight operations and support for the two-seat autonomous vehicle.
The commencement of commercial flights is contingent upon EHang obtaining an operating certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The company already holds type and production certificates and has been delivering several EH216-S units for small-scale flight demonstrations under special permits.
China Southern Airlines General Aviation Company Limited (CSGAC) currently operates helicopters for services such as support for oil and gas platforms, power line patrols, emergency rescue missions, and other public services. It has a base in Zhuhai and locations in Zhanjiang (Guangdong province), Sanya (Hainan), and Xingcheng (Liaoning).