Shanghai (ZXZC)- On April 30, Geely's AEROFUGIA low altitude transportation company and CITIC Offshore Helicopter Co., Ltd. ("COHC"), inked a strategic cooperation agreement, to closely collaborate on operations such as low-altitude travel, air tourism, and emergency rescue to jointly promote the commercialization of eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft and create a model for low-altitude economic operations. 

Photo credit: AEROFUGIA

The duo aims to gradually implement low-altitude commercial scenarios in central urban areas such as Chengdu, combining traditional helicopter low-altitude commercial operation experience with new electric aviation technology systems.

As an eVTOL R&D firm in China, AEROFUGIA stands out as Geely's exclusive new general aviation subsidiary. It possesses both the capability to develop eVTOL products with complete proprietary intellectual property rights and the operational proficiency of developing eVTOL products globally. Its self-developed product, the AE200, boasts a range of 200km for intercity commutes and 30km for urban transportation connections. Having completed Phase I airworthiness technology verification trials, it is now pioneering compliance planning and approval.

Photo credit: AEROFUGIA

COHC, China's major general aviation enterprise, holds comprehensive qualifications for general aviation operations across major sea areas and cities nationwide. Additionally, COHC possesses a fleet of civilian helicopters and a experienced team of pilots, mechanics, and support staff. It is included among the earliest adopters of a complete general aviation management system in China, having secured ISO international quality system certification from the British Standards Association.