Top 10 eVTOL Companies 2026: The Ultimate Industry Ranking

The year 2026 marks a historic pivot for the aviation industry as electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft transition from experimental prototypes to certified commercial realities. As cities like Dubai, Bangkok, and Los Angeles inaugurate their first vertiports, the eVTOL companies leading this charge are redefining urban air mobility (UAM). With billions of dollars in venture capital and strategic aerospace partnerships, the competition to dominate the low-altitude economy has never been more intense.

This comprehensive report identifies the top 10 eVTOL companies of 2026 based on certification progress, order backlogs, technological maturity, and operational readiness. Whether it is autonomous pilotless flight or piloted regional transport, these firms are the architects of a quieter, greener, and faster future.

1. The State of eVTOL Companies in 2026

In early 2026, the global eVTOL companies landscape is characterized by “Certification Realism.” While the initial hype cycles suggested thousands of air taxis would be flying by 2024, the rigorous safety standards of the FAA (USA), EASA (Europe), and CAAC (China) have ensured that only the most technically sound platforms remain in the race. The industry is no longer just about the aircraft; it is about the “Ecosystem”—comprising vertiports, air traffic management AI, and high-speed charging networks.

2. Joby Aviation: The Certification Frontrunner

As of January 2026, Joby Aviation holds the title of the most advanced among US-based eVTOL companies. Having moved into Stage 4 of FAA certification, Joby has successfully integrated CAE flight simulators to train up to 250 pilots annually. Their flagship S4 aircraft, a five-seater tilt-rotor, has demonstrated a 150-mile range and speeds of 200 mph. With massive backing from Toyota and an exclusive agreement to launch commercial services in Dubai by early 2026, Joby is widely considered the “Gold Standard” for piloted electric air taxis.

3. Archer Aviation: The Commercial Network Powerhouse

Archer Aviation has accelerated its timeline through strategic partnerships with Stellantis for manufacturing and United Airlines for routes. At CES 2026, Archer announced a groundbreaking tie-up with Nvidia to integrate the IGX Thor AI platform into their “Midnight” aircraft, enhancing its autonomy-ready flight controls. With an order book exceeding $6 billion, Archer is focusing on “home-to-airport” shuttle services in high-congestion hubs like Los Angeles and New York City.

4. EHang: Global Leader in Pilotless AAVs

Among all eVTOL companies, EHang remains the pioneer of autonomous flight. In late 2025, EHang’s EH216-S became the first pilotless eVTOL to conduct human-carrying flights under Thailand’s AAM Sandbox Initiative. Headquartered in Guangzhou, EHang already possesses the world’s first Type Certificate and Production Certificate for pilotless eVTOLs from the CAAC. Their focus on aerial tourism and smart city management has allowed them to generate revenue earlier than their Western counterparts.

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6. Volocopter: European Sandbox Pioneer

German-based Volocopter has launched Europe’s first eVTOL sandbox program in 2026. This initiative uses the VoloCity aircraft to simulate real-world passenger experiences and medical emergency missions in collaboration with ADAC Luftrettung. While Volocopter faced financial headwinds in 2024, its integration into the Diamond Aircraft Industries portfolio has stabilized its path toward EASA certification, making it a critical player for European inner-city hops.

7. Lilium: The Regional Air Mobility Specialist

Unlike other eVTOL companies focusing on 20-mile urban hops, Lilium is targeting regional travel. Their Lilium Jet utilizes 36 electric ducted fans embedded in the wings for a “Lift and Cruise” configuration. Lilium has confirmed its 2026 target for first customer deliveries, with a major binding sales agreement with Saudia Group for 50 jets. Their 2026 strategy emphasizes “Lilium POWER-ON,” a dedicated service and support organization to ensure smooth entry into service.

8. Beta Technologies: Logistics and Charging Infrastructure

Beta Technologies stands out for its “pragmatic” approach. In 2026, they are not only certifying their ALIA-250 eVTOL but also their fixed-wing CX300 electric airplane. Beta is a leader in the infrastructure space, deploying a nationwide network of rapid chargers that are aircraft-agnostic. Their uncrewed, hybrid-electric Alia MV250 is currently being flight-tested for defense applications, highlighting the dual-use nature of their technology.

9. Vertical Aerospace: The UK’s Flight Champion

Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace completed its third and final full-scale prototype aircraft in early 2026. Their VX4 aircraft features a unique tilt-wing design. While a 2023 crash delayed their timeline, Vertical has gained momentum with a recent UK CAA Permit to Fly. Their 2026 focus is on the “Valo” configuration, an upgraded design intended for type-conforming certification campaigns through 2028.

10. Wisk Aero: Boeing’s Autonomous Vision

Wisk Aero, now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Boeing, achieved a massive milestone in December 2025 with the first flight of its Generation 6 autonomous aircraft. Wisk is the only company among the top eVTOL companies in the US pursuing a “self-flying first” strategy. Backed by Boeing’s aerospace heritage, Wisk is working directly with the FAA to establish the regulatory framework for autonomous passenger travel, targeting Houston and Los Angeles as launch markets.

11. Eve Air Mobility: Embraer’s Strategic Play

Spun out of Embraer, Eve Air Mobility benefits from decades of aircraft manufacturing experience. While their service entry is officially targeted for 2027, Brazil’s regulator (ANAC) has signaled intent to accelerate accreditation to late 2026. Eve’s “Lift + Cruise” design is touted for its simplicity and lower maintenance costs, contributing to a massive backlog of nearly 3,000 units from global airlines and leasing firms.

12. AutoFlight: The Rising Star from Shanghai

AutoFlight has quickly climbed the ranks of eVTOL companies with its “Prosperity I” aircraft. In 2025, they demonstrated the world’s first inter-city eVTOL flight in China. By 2026, they have established an engineering hub in Europe to pursue EASA certification, aiming to provide high-speed cargo and passenger solutions across the Asian and European markets.

13. Summary Table: Top 10 eVTOL Comparison

14. Frequently Asked Questions