Eve Air Mobility, United Plan San Francisco eVTOL Network

Companies are developing commuter routes and expect to have electric aircraft in service in 2026.

Eve Air Mobility and United Airlines are planning eVTOL routes in San Francisco. [Courtesy: Eve Air Mobility]

Eve Air Mobility (NYSE: EVEX) and United Airlines (NASDAQ: UAL) said they plan to launch electric-powered  commuter flights in San Francisco in the next few years.

The companies called the announcement a “first step” in a process that includes coordination with energy and technology providers as well as state and local officials to ensure adequate infrastructure is in place to support eVTOL aircraft operations. Eve and United also are working together to develop a network of routes.

“Our shared goal is to provide residents and visitors to the San Francisco Bay Area with efficient and cost-competitive transportation in one of the most densely populated urban areas in the U.S.,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “The Bay Area is perfect for eVTOL flights, given its size, traffic, focus on sustainability, innovation, and commitment to add other options for mobility.”

Eve said its eVTOL has a range of 60 miles (100 kilometers), allowing it to complete a variety of urban air mobility missions in the Bay Area.

“Urban Air Mobility has the potential to revolutionize how United customers work, live, and travel,” said Michael Leskinen, president of United Airlines Ventures. “Eve’s proposed route is a critical first step towards making this all-electric and quiet commute a reality for Bay Area residents.”

In 2022, United announced a $15 million investment in Eve and a purchase agreement for 200 eVTOLs and 200 options as part of a strategy to establish a leadership position in aviation sustainability.

Eve’s eVTOL is scheduled to enter service in 2026.

Jonathan Welsh is a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4

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