Kenya Airways’ Fahari Aviation subsidiary and Embraer’s Eve Urban Air Mobility Solutions division have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at developing operational models for the wide-accessibility of Urban Air Mobility (UAM).
The partnership will establish the co-creation of a foundation of concepts and procedures to safely scale electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, also known in the market as EVA (Electrical Vertical Aircraft).
Under the agreement, Eve will support Fahari’s establishment of an urban air mobility (UAM) network and collaborate on the required urban air traffic management procedures operating environment. The partnership will also allow Fahari to support Eve’s aircraft and product development process, helping guide the integration of UAM services with Kenya Airways’ overall operations.
Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director and CEO of Kenya Airways, commented: “Partnerships are vital in mapping out the future of our airline, something which the global crisis has reinforced. Innovation is a critical element of our long-term sustainability. Fahari Aviation is at the forefront of exploring advanced technologies, with a key focus in aviation, starting with drone technology. With this partnership, we look to develop innovative air mobility solutions for our clients in Kenya and throughout the region.”
Andre Stein, President & CEO of Eve, also commented: “We are thrilled to partner with Kenya Airways to provide new forms of air mobility throughout the region for both people and goods. The creation of disruptive and widely accessible Urban Air Mobility solutions will help democratise mobility by making it more accessible, affordable and giving communities more options. This partnership will foster long-term mobility strategies throughout the country and region. With our aircraft and aerospace services backing and Kenya Airways’ innovative approach to air mobility, we are enthusiastic about opening this region to more sustainable and community-friendly air access for all.”
The partnership will deliver a robust strategy to provide Fahari Aviation’s passengers with a sustainable, accessible, and affordable transportation option. It is estimated that using UAM from the airport to downtown, EVA can reduce conventional road trips by up to 90% turning an hour and a half ride into a six-minute flight.
