At XPONENTIAL 2026 this week, leaders from University of Michigan outlined an ambitious vision for the future of drones and advanced air mobility (AAM): one where Michigan becomes a central hub for the emerging low altitude economy by combining aerospace innovation with Detroit’s industrial manufacturing strength. DRONELIFE had the opportunity for a meaningful discussion with … [Read more...] about Michigan’s Bet on the Low Altitude Economy: How M Air Connects Aerospace Innovation and Detroit Manufacturing
Electric Aircraft
Archer Aviation Brings Starlink Connectivity to Midnight Air Taxi
Archer Aviation announced on February 27, 2026 that it will integrate Starlink's low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite internet system into its Midnight electric air taxi aircraft. The collaboration marks Starlink's first entry into the urban air mobility sector. Starlink Connectivity in the Midnight eVTOL: Technical Details Midnight is a piloted eVTOL designed to carry up to … [Read more...] about Archer Aviation Brings Starlink Connectivity to Midnight Air Taxi
ST Engineering, Air Inc. Unveil Large Cargo Drone For Commercial Operations
Singapore Technologies Engineering (ST Engineering) introduced its largest unmanned cargo aircraft to date at the Singapore Airshow media preview on February 1, marking a significant expansion in the company's unmanned air systems portfolio. The DrN-600 represents a major step toward commercial cargo drone operations, targeting last-mile delivery applications in underserved … [Read more...] about ST Engineering, Air Inc. Unveil Large Cargo Drone For Commercial Operations
Archer Aviation Launches Multiple Applications for eVTOL Integration Pilot Program
Archer Aviation has announced partnerships with multiple U.S. cities to submit applications under the White House's eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), designed to accelerate electric air taxi operations across the nation. Established through President Trump's "Unleashing Drone Dominance" Executive Order, the program creates operational pathways for leading American eVTOL … [Read more...] about Archer Aviation Launches Multiple Applications for eVTOL Integration Pilot Program
LIFT Aircraft Begins FAA Type Certification for Commercial HEXA eVTOL
Move expands HEXA lineup and positions the company for commercial and autonomous air taxi operations LIFT Aircraft has started the Federal Aviation Administration Type Certification process for a new commercial version of its HEXA electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. The company announced the milestone from Austin, Texas. The new aircraft, called the HEXA … [Read more...] about LIFT Aircraft Begins FAA Type Certification for Commercial HEXA eVTOL
