Etihad Aviation Training, Volar Air Mobility partner to advance electric aircraft operations
Etihad Aviation Training recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a Hong Kong-based advanced air mobility (AAM) solutions provider, Volar Air Mobility.
The agreement was formalised during the inaugural Advanced Air Mobility Symposium (AAM 2024), hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada.
The MoU focuses on advancing research and development (R&D) in electric aircraft technology, sustainability projects, and regulatory engagement with UAE authorities.
Through this collaboration, both companies aim to support the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 agenda and foster the growth of AAM solutions.
Strategic collaboration
Paolo La Cava, CEO of Etihad Aviation Training LLC, highlighted the significance of the MoU, stating, “This MoU underscores our commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the aviation industry. Our partnership with Volar Air Mobility will enable us to explore new avenues for advanced electric aircraft operations, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.”
On his part, Henry Hooi, Chairman of Volar Air Mobility Holding Company, shared excitement about the collaboration, noting, “We are excited to join forces with Etihad Aviation Training on this groundbreaking initiative. Together, we will not only explore new frontiers in advanced air mobility but also contribute to the UAE’s leadership in environmental sustainability and innovation.”
Furthermore, Saif Aldarmaki, Founding Partner of Volar Air Mobility Industries, highlighted that the MoU signifies a major step forward in their mission to revolutionise air mobility. “By working together, we will push the boundaries of what’s possible in electric aviation and pave the way for a greener, more efficient future,” he added.
Additionally, Anwar Hussein, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Volar Air Mobility Industries, pointed out that the collaboration with Etihad Aviation Training is a powerful example of how strategic alliances can advance the UAE’s ambitious sustainability goals and foster the development of sustainable air mobility solutions on a global scale.
In recent years, the UAE has positioned itself as a leader in the AAM sector, spearheading the regulatory developments for urban air mobility. This includes its pioneering efforts to establish guidelines for vertiports and air taxis.
At AAM 2024, H.E. Mohamed Abdulla Al Salami, Chairman of the Fujairah Department of Civil Aviation and Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), presented the UAE’s strategic vision for AAM.
He highlighted the country’s commitment to setting global benchmarks and promoting international collaboration in advancing both technological innovations and regulatory standards.