Hyundai’s eVTOL startup Supernal pauses work following CEO and CTO departures

Hyundai’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) startup Supernal has paused its aircraft development program following significant leadership changes and staff reductions. The company’s CEO Jaiwon Shin and CTO David McBride have both departed amid these upheavals. Supernal had conducted initial test flights of its technology demonstrator earlier in 2024 and was preparing for its first untethered flight, aiming for a commercial launch in 2028. However, the new leadership will now reassess the timeline for the project. The company has not commented on McBride’s departure but confirmed that David Rottblatt is serving as interim COO during this transition. Supernal’s difficulties reflect broader challenges in the emerging electric air taxi industry, where some startups are thriving with new funding and partnerships, while others have failed. Since spinning out from Hyundai Group in 2021, Supernal has faced setbacks including layoffs and the closure of its Washington, D.C. headquarters. Hyundai plans to appoint new leadership with strong