The dawn of the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft era is upon us, promising a revolution in urban air mobility and regional transportation. As we stand on the cusp of this transformative period, it is imperative to assess the current status of eVTOL technology, its recent advancements, and the challenges ahead. This Special Issue of Aerospace Research Communications is dedicated to exploring the multifaceted progress in the eVTOL sector, bringing together insights from industry leaders, researchers, and innovators who are shaping the future of flight.

Scope
This Special Issue encompasses a broad spectrum of topics that reflect the dynamic nature of eVTOL development. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest trends, cutting-edge research, and practical applications in the field. The scope includes, but is not limited to, the following areas:

1. Design Innovations: A detailed examination of novel eVTOL designs, including multi-rotor, lift+cruise, tilt-rotor, and hybrid configurations, and their impact on performance, efficiency, and safety.

2. Propulsion Systems (Electric Propulsion Systems and Hybrid Electric Propulsion Systems): An in-depth look at the latest advancements in energy storage and propulsion systems, focusing on battery technology, electric motor technology, propeller technology, charging infrastructure, and even aero-engine systems.

3. Avionics and Autonomous Flight: Integration of advanced avionics and development of autonomous flight systems that enable safe and reliable eVTOL operations.

4. Regulatory Landscape: A discussion on the evolving regulatory frameworks and certification processes that are critical for the safe integration of eVTOL aircraft into existing airspace.

5. Structure and Materials: Development in lightweight design methods and application of advanced materials that contribute to the lightweight and cost-effective production of eVTOL aircraft.

6. Noise Reduction Technologies: Strategies and technologies aimed at minimizing noise pollution from eVTOL operations, ensuring community acceptance and regulatory compliance.

7. Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Ecosystem: Development of the UAM ecosystem, including vertiports, air traffic management, and the role of eVTOL in creating a connected and efficient urban transportation network.

8. Case Studies and Demonstrations: Real-world examples of eVTOL aircraft in operation, highlighting practical challenges and successes of current demonstration projects.

9. Environmental Impact: An assessment of environmental benefits and potential drawbacks of eVTOL technology, including emissions reduction and the overall carbon footprint.

10. Market Analysis and Forecasts: A market overview, including investment trends, potential use cases, and forecasts for the growth and adoption of eVTOL aircraft.

Prospective contributors are invited to submit original research work and comprehensive reviews that address the topics outlined above. All submissions will undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the quality, relevance, and originality of the published content.

Any questions? Please email the Editorial Office.

All article processing charges are being waived until the end of 2025 for submissions to Aerospace Research Communications.

Article types and fees

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• Letter to the Editor
• Original Research
• Review

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• Letter to the Editor
• Original Research
• Review

Keywords: eVTOL, conceptual design, electric propulsion, flight control, noise, lightweight structure, MDO