Astana witnessed its first-ever demonstration flight of an air taxi based on an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft on July 24. The demonstration marked another milestone in the implementation of Kazakhstan’s Urban Air Mobility (UAM) development project, according to the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.
The demonstration featured the AutoFlight Prosperity eVTOL, designed to carry one pilot and up to five passengers. The aircraft is capable of speeds of up to 200 km/h and has a range of up to 200 km. Equipped with 13 electric motors, it operates significantly more quietly than conventional aircraft and produces zero CO₂ emissions.
In accordance with safety requirements, the demonstration flight of the AutoFlight Prosperity was conducted without passengers.
“The demonstration flight in Astana is not a standalone event but part of a systematic effort to introduce Urban Air Mobility in Kazakhstan. The country is steadily building a comprehensive ecosystem: the necessary legislation has been adopted, infrastructure development is underway, and international cooperation with leading global companies continues to expand. Demonstration flights help prepare the industry for the practical deployment of these technologies. Our goal is to make innovative air transport an integral part of Kazakhstan’s transportation system,” said Sergey Khegay, Chief Executive Officer of Alatau Advance Air Group Ltd. (AAAG).
The development of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) in Kazakhstan, including projects within Alatau City, is coordinated by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev. This work brings together the government agencies responsible for establishing the new industry. A key role is played by the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.
Kellen Xie, Senior Vice President of AutoFlight, said: “Looking ahead, we see our large eVTOL technology transforming the region across multiple sectors: advanced air mobility through air taxis providing seamless connectivity between cities; regional air transportation capable of covering vast distances across the world’s largest landlocked country; sightseeing flights over Kazakhstan’s spectacular snow-capped mountains and ski resorts; intercity logistics and express delivery; and smart city operations, including emergency medical services and energy infrastructure support. These applications represent far more than technological possibilities – they define a new paradigm of sustainable, zero-emission transportation for Central Asia. We sincerely thank the Government of Kazakhstan, the country’s aviation authorities, our strategic partner AAAG, and all members of our ecosystem for their vision, trust, and continued support. Together, we are building an intelligent low-altitude transportation network that will shape a better future for everyone.”
Photo: gov.kz
