From Kitty Hawk to Supernal: The Shrinking Future of eVTOLs - CleanTechnica

The article from CleanTechnica highlights a significant shift in the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft industry, marked by Supernal’s recent decision to pause its eVTOL development. Despite strong backing from Hyundai and ambitious plans to launch a five-seat air taxi by 2028, Supernal’s retreat signals broader challenges facing the sector. Many eVTOL companies are struggling to transition from prototypes to certified, commercially viable aircraft amid high costs, regulatory hurdles, and operational complexities. Of 32 firms tracked, seven have abandoned their programs, three operate limited commercial services, one has pivoted business models, and 21 remain in pre-production, reflecting a more cautious and grounded industry outlook compared to earlier hype. The article also contrasts the fading enthusiasm for eVTOLs with the similarly challenged hydrogen vehicle sector, noting that both face fundamental economic, technical, and regulatory barriers. High-profile eVTOL failures include Kitty Hawk’s shutdown, Lilium’s bankruptcy, Volocopter’s