Anra Technologies has become the first company to obtain U-space service provider certification from EASA. Announcing the news at the Airspace World event in Lisbon on May 14, Anra indicated that it is ready to launch U-space air traffic management services to support uncrewed aircraft operations in several European member states, pending approval from national regulators and air navigation service providers. 

The FAA has approved the certification basis for Ampaire’s hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion system, a retrofit-ready powertrain that could enter service in 2026 on the Eco Caravan, a modified Cessna 208B Grand Caravan.

Vertical Aerospace has confirmed plans to develop a hybrid-electric version of its VX4 eVTOL aircraft. The new variant announced on May 12 is expected to offer a longer range than the all-electric model, operating on routes of up to 1,000 miles (870 nm).

Universal Avionics recently achieved FAA certification for its Wi-Fi-enabled flight management system on Part 25 aircraft. The approved model list supplemental type certificate (AML STC) establishes the foundation for implementing the company’s connected avionics solution across multiple aircraft platforms.

Cargo flight group RVL Aviation plans to introduce Cessna Grand Caravan 208B aircraft retrofitted with ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric propulsion system to its fleet. Announcing an agreement on May 13, the companies said the converted single turboprop aircraft will enter service on domestic UK routes after ZeroAvia secures the required certification for the 600-kilowatt ZA600 powertrain.

Emergency air medical services in Taiwan’s Penghu islands could start using SkyDrive’s electric air taxi to transport patients and doctors around the archipelago as early as 2028. As part of an expanded partnership agreement announced on May 8, Taiwanese drone developer 7A Drones has placed a pre-order for up to 10 of SkyDrive’s three-seat SD-05 eVTOL aircraft.

As part of Boeing’s ongoing reboot of its leadership team, Brian Yutko has been moved from his role as CEO of the aerospace and defense giant’s eVTOL aircraft subsidiary, Wisk Aero, to serve as vice president for product development with Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Stepping into his shoes at Wisk is Sebastien Vigneron, who has been the company’s senior vice president of engineering and programs.