Dubai-based private aviation operator Air Chateau has entered into a partnership with Crisalion Mobility, a European developer of efficient, safe and sustainable electric mobility solutions, to support the development of electric air taxi services in the United Arab Emirates.

Air Chateau’s pre-order of 10 Integrity eVTOLs, announced during both companies’ debuts at Farnborough International Airshow 2024, expands Crisalion’s pre-order book to 125 aircraft. It also represents the company’s first commercial partnership in both the private aviation market and the Middle East.

In support of the UAE’s strategic mobility plans, Crisalion and Air Chateau will work closely together on a growth plan for electric air taxi services in major cities, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Eager to embrace advanced air mobility, the demographics of the region represent fertile ground for the proliferation of eVTOLs.

The agreement also serves as a foundation for potential future joint projects between the two companies in Europe. With the integration of the Integrity aircraft into its services, Air Chateau will be able to offer customers a safe, sustainable, zero emissions regional air mobility alternative.

Currently under development, Crisalion Mobility’s Integrity eVTOL is designed to accommodate up to five passengers and a pilot. Its characteristics make it suitable for urban and intercity passenger and cargo transport. Designed with FlyFree technology, the aircraft provides safety at all stages of flight, delivering an optimal travel experience while minimising emissions.

Crisalion Mobility general manager Manuel Heredia says: “Air Chateau has demonstrated a strong commitment to advanced air mobility, innovation and technology as one of UAE's leading aviation companies. This partnership not only opens the door to a strategic region for Crisalion but will also form part of Air Chateau's approach to providing sustainable air travel services to its customers.”

Air Chateau chairman Dr Samir Mohamed Yusuf adds: “Our shared vision of transforming advanced air mobility (AAM) aligns perfectly with the needs of modern transportation in the urban and suburban settings. Through this partnership, we will not only enhance connectivity but also contribute to alleviating the burden on legacy ground infrastructure, complement existing transportation networks and reduce congestion to build a sustainable future. Air Chateau is excited about the future of AAM, and this collaboration with Crisalion marks a milestone in our journey towards creating smarter, greener cities.”

Air Chateau is also poised to play a pivotal role in the development of heliports and vertiports, with approval to conduct design preparation and provide equipment specs and landing field documentation from the DCAA.

The certification, valid for one year from the date of issue, allows Air Chateau DWC to conduct the design preparation of heliports and vertiports in compliance with the requirements of the DCAA and the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. This includes providing necessary services to fulfil regulatory requirements such as equipment specifications, documentation and other essential elements of the landing field.

“We are honoured to receive this certification from the DCAA,” says CEO Shilton Tony Irudayaraj. “Another milestone achieved by Air Chateau. This accomplishment marks a significant step forward in our commitment to building and contributing to the vertical aviation business.”