UrbanLink Air Mobility LLC, a South Florida-based advanced air mobility (AAM) specialist, has announced a strategic partnership with Eviation Aircraft.
This collaboration involves the purchase of 10 Alice aircraft, Eviation’s all-electric, 9-passenger commuter aircraft. The agreement includes an option for 10 additional units.
UrbanLink’s all-electric operation plan encompasses eVTOL Aircraft, electric sea vessels, and the 9-passenger Alice aircraft.
Alice: Expanding Electric Fleet Capabilities
The acquisition of the Alice aircraft complements UrbanLink’s existing commitments to electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and maritime vessels. This will form a comprehensive zero-emission transportation network.
Ed Wegel, UrbanLink Founder and Chairman, explained the company focus. “The integration of Eviation’s Alice aircraft into our fleet represents a critical component of our all-electric operating strategy. This acquisition enables us to offer medium-range, zero-emission flights, complementing our eVTOL and electric maritime operations.”
Technical Specifications and Operational Range
The Alice aircraft, developed by Washington State-based Eviation Aircraft Inc., boasts a range of up to 250 nautical miles on a single charge.
This capability positions the aircraft as a viable solution for regional air mobility, offering operators a sustainable alternative to conventional combustion engine aircraft in the commuter and charter markets.
Innovative Airframe Design
Eviation’s approach to electric aviation goes beyond mere propulsion system replacement. The company has engineered the Alice’s airframe specifically for electric flight. It has optimized aerodynamics, weight distribution, and energy efficiency to meet this requirement.
This ground-up design philosophy aims to maximize the aircraft’s performance and operational economics in the evolving landscape of sustainable aviation.
Andre Stein, CEO of Eviation, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Our collaboration with UrbanLink represents a pivotal moment in the commercialization of electric aviation.”
“The Alice aircraft’s zero-emissions technology and advanced avionics will enable UrbanLink to pioneer new standards in regional air mobility while adhering to stringent environmental criteria.”
UrbanLink’s Strategic Expansion
Since its inception in April 2024, UrbanLink has rapidly expanded its footprint in the zero-emission transportation sector.
The company’s May 2024 agreement with Lilium to acquire 20 eVTOL jets positions UrbanLink to potentially become the first U.S. airline to integrate eVTOL aircraft into commercial operations, with service projected to commence by Summer 2026.
The company has also established partnerships with Ferrovial Vertiports and Skyway Technologies to develop essential ground infrastructure in key markets. These strategic alliances aim to create a network of vertiports capable of supporting both eVTOL and fixed-wing electric aircraft operations.
Multimodal Zero-Emission Transportation
In addition to its air mobility initiatives, UrbanLink is diversifying into sustainable maritime transport. The company plans to incorporate Artemis Technologies’ zero-emission water taxis and REGENT Craft’s Viceroy seagliders into its operations. This further expands its intermodal transportation capabilities.
Initial Market Focus and Future Expansion
UrbanLink’s initial operational focus encompasses the Miami/South Florida and Los Angeles/Southern California regions, as well as select Caribbean markets.
The company has indicated plans for future route network expansion, with additional regions to be announced as infrastructure and regulatory frameworks evolve.
Conclusion
The partnership between UrbanLink and Eviation represents a significant step forward in the commercial viability of electric aviation.
By combining advanced electric aircraft technology with a comprehensive ground infrastructure network, UrbanLink is positioning itself at the forefront of the zero-emission regional transportation revolution.
As regulatory bodies and consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable travel options, initiatives like this partnership may serve as a template for the future of regional air mobility.
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