Podcast
The eVTOL Insights Podcast
Hosted by The eVTOL Insights Podcast · EN
eVTOL Insights is a leading source of news, information and analysis into the global electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and Advanced Air Mobility markets.
Since our launch in April 2020, we’ve been covering the latest industry news and offering insight for leading executives in the manned and unmanned market, across both passenger and cargo-carrying services.
Our in-depth podcasts aim to cover a range of different topics, from eVTOL OEMs updates, certification, landing infrastructure, battery developments and regulations.
Head to evtolinsights.com, where you can read the latest stories and features, watch short industry videos and sign up to our newsletter, WhatsApp and Signal channels.
24episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 222: Mark Duschesne, Head of Manufacturing at REGENT
1w ago00:35:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode with Mark, we explore what it takes to transform a revolutionary transport concept into a scalable manufacturing operation. Drawing on leadership experience at Toyota, Tesla, Northvolt and Byton, Mark shares lessons on building flexible production systems, developing resilient supply chains, and embedding quality from day one. He discusses Regent's progress towards commercial sea glider production, the company's new Rhode Island manufacturing facility, and the unique challenge of combining aerospace, automotive and marine manufacturing practices. The conversation also examines automation, workforce development, AI's emerging role in manufacturing, and the importance of designing products with production in mind from the outset. Whether you're interested in advanced air mobility, manufacturing strategy or the future of sustainable transportation, this episode offers valuable insights into bringing groundbreaking technology from prototype to commercial reality.
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Episode 221: Lavera Alexander, Chief Growth Officer at Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP)
2w ago00:34:56Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Lavera Alexander, Chief Growth Officer and CAMC Director at the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP), about California's pioneering approach to Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Lavera explains how the California Advanced Air Mobility Corridors Initiative (CAMC) is connecting four public-use airports into the state's first FAA-compliant multi-airport flight network, shifting the industry's focus from proving aircraft performance to validating integrated transportation systems. She discusses why coordination between airports, utilities, regulators, communities and industry partners is just as important as technological innovation, and why public trust must be treated as critical infrastructure. The conversation also explores workforce development, community engagement, economic development and the importance of demonstrating tangible public benefits, from emergency response and healthcare access to cargo operations. Lavera shares her vision of success for AAM, where electric aircraft become an accepted, everyday part of transportation networks that genuinely improve people's lives.
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Episode 220: Michael Proffitt, Chairman of Vertiports UK
3w ago00:37:01Tap to summarizeIn this episode, host Jason Pritchard speaks with Michael about the critical role infrastructure will play in enabling the future of advanced air mobility. While much of the industry's attention has focused on aircraft development, Michael explains why vertiports, charging networks, maintenance facilities and low-altitude airspace management are equally essential for commercial eVTOL operations to succeed. The conversation explores the challenges of building a complete ecosystem for urban and regional air mobility, including regulatory approvals, planning requirements, energy provision and collaboration with organisations such as NATS and the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Michael also shares insights from Vertiports UK's feasibility studies, which assess potential locations, route networks and operational requirements across the UK. Looking ahead, he discusses how vertiports, drones and eVTOL aircraft will work together to create a connected, efficient and sustainable transportation network for passengers and cargo.
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Episode 219: Josh Portlock of Electro Ventures & Joe Mattern, Founder of VertiSim
4w ago00:32:29Tap to summarizeElectro Ventures has expanded its advanced air mobility portfolio with the acquisition of Vertiport Simulations, marking a significant step toward accelerating the development of eVTOL infrastructure. In this episode, host Jason Pritchard speaks with Electro Ventures’ founding partner and innovation director Josh Portlock and Vertiport Simulations founder Joe Mattern about the partnership, the growing importance of simulation technology, and the future of electric aviation. The discussion explores how realistic digital simulations help airports, vertiports, operators and regulators plan charging infrastructure, aircraft operations and site layouts before construction begins. Josh and Joe explain how simulation can reduce costs, improve safety and support smarter investment decisions as the industry moves closer to commercial deployment. They also share insights on industry collaboration, charging standardisation and the growing momentum behind advanced air mobility projects, particularly in North America. Together, they highlight why infrastructure, charging solutions and strategic partnerships will be critical to turning the promise of eVTOL operations into reality.
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Episode 218: Louis Saint-Cyr, President of the Airlines at Surf Air Mobility
May 2800:41:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Louis Saint-Cyr talks about the company’s vision for transforming regional aviation through electrification, AI-driven software, and operational innovation. Louis explains how Surf Air Mobility is combining airline operations, advanced technology, and strategic partnerships to prepare for the arrival of electric aircraft. The discussion explores the company’s work with BETA Technologies, why Hawaii represents an ideal launch market for electric aviation, and how SurfOS — Surf’s AI-enabled operational platform built alongside Palantir — is helping modernise airline operations. The conversation also covers the economics of electric flight, infrastructure challenges, sustainability goals, and why operational discipline and digital transformation will be critical to scaling advanced air mobility successfully. With certification milestones approaching across the industry, Louis shares why he believes the focus is now shifting from who builds the aircraft to who can successfully operationalise them at scale.
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Episode 217: Beth Flippo, CEO and Founder of Dexa
May 2100:37:12Tap to summarizeDEXA is one of only four FAA-certified drone carriers in the United States. In this episode, Beth shares how her background in engineering, defense technology and secure communications led to the creation of DEXA’s autonomous drone delivery platform, designed to help local retailers compete with major e-commerce giants. The conversation explores DEXA’s mission to transform grocery and retail logistics through ultra-fast, 15-minute drone deliveries, while supporting local communities and reducing reliance on traditional delivery models. Beth also discusses the company’s FAA certification journey, the importance of safety and regulation, and the technical challenges of building secure, scalable autonomous aircraft. Looking ahead, she outlines a future where drones, autonomous vehicles and robotics work together seamlessly to reshape urban mobility, logistics and how consumers access everyday goods.
Transcribe →Episode 216: Mark Ingram, Technical Director at Hewland Engineering
May 1400:26:49Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we speak to Mark Ingram, Technical Director at Hewland Engineering, about how the company’s motorsport heritage is helping shape the future of Advanced Air Mobility. Mark explains how Hewland’s expertise in high-performance transmissions is being adapted for electric and hybrid-electric aircraft, where efficiency, durability, lightweight design and certification are all critical. The conversation explores the technical challenges of developing compact driveline systems for eVTOL aircraft, the importance of early collaboration with aircraft manufacturers, and how integrated propulsion systems could improve performance and reduce weight. Mark also shares insights into Hewland’s specialist testing capabilities, rapid innovation approach and growing partnerships across the sector. With support from Hero Motors, Hewland is positioning itself to take customers from prototype development through to scalable production, helping accelerate the commercialization of next-generation electric aviation.
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Women in AAM Podcast: Elan Head, Senior Editor at The Air Current
Apr 3000:39:33Tap to summarizeThis podcast episode features a great in-depth discussion between Women in AAM Chairperson Marilyn Pearson and aviation journalist and pilot Elan Head on the evolving advanced air mobility and eVTOL industry. Elan emphasizes that while urban air taxis attract attention, the true excitement lies in the technological innovations—particularly in electric propulsion, autonomy, and flight controls—that could reshape aviation more broadly. They explore challenges in pilot training, noting that eVTOLs will still require significant skill and robust education despite early claims of simplicity. The conversation also addresses industry hype, delayed certification timelines, and resulting public skepticism, with Elan arguing that expectations were initially unrealistic. Promising early use cases such as tourism and short regional transport are highlighted as practical entry points. They also examine regulatory differences, global competition—especially from China—and the complexity of certification processes. Overall, the episode underscores both the transformative potential and the practical hurdles facing the AAM industry.
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Episode 215: Ralph Muller, CEO of H2FLY
Apr 1600:37:52Tap to summarizeIn this podcast, Ralph discusses the company’s rapid evolution toward commercial hydrogen-electric aviation. Since taking leadership, he has focused on accelerating development, scaling operations, and strengthening partnerships with aircraft manufacturers. He highlights key learnings from demonstrator programs like the HY4 and collaborations with Joby Aviation, which informed more ambitious technology roadmaps. A major theme is the transition to megawatt-class fuel cell systems, where system architecture, integration, and efficiency are critical challenges. Ralph emphasizes that early adoption will likely occur in small, electrified aircraft, where hydrogen extends range beyond battery limits. He also underscores the importance of early OEM collaboration, certification alignment, and infrastructure development, including hydrogen production and refueling. Looking ahead, Ralph shares more details about certification progress, power density improvements, and supportive policy as key to achieving scalable, zero-emission aviation by 2030.
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Episode 214: Santh Sathya, CEO and Founder, LuftCar
Apr 900:38:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Santh talks about redefining advanced air mobility through a hybrid air–ground vehicle platform. Originally inspired by defense logistics, LuftCar aims to solve last-mile transport challenges by enabling seamless movement of people, vehicles, and cargo using a modular system that integrates flight and road travel. Santh outlines the company’s “full-stack” approach, combining aircraft, hydrogen-based energy infrastructure, vertiports, and an AI-driven planning platform to support scalable deployment. He emphasizes hydrogen’s advantages over batteries for range and payload, while acknowledging infrastructure and regulatory hurdles. LuftCar is targeting cargo, regional mobility, and emergency services rather than urban air taxis, positioning itself in a less crowded segment. The conversation also highlights the importance of public-private partnerships, affordability, and safety in scaling the industry. Looking ahead, LuftCar plans full-scale vehicle development, infrastructure rollout, and expansion into new markets.
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