Astana has witnessed a historic milestone with the country's first passenger flight of the EH216-S autonomous passenger aircraft. The production-model electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft carried a passenger on board during a demonstration flight over a specially authorized area of the capital as part of the international Games of the Future 2026 tournament. This marks the first passenger flight of its kind in Kazakhstan's history.

The demonstration gave participants an opportunity to observe the practical capabilities of autonomous aerial systems under real operating conditions. The aircraft is designed to carry two passengers, has a maximum speed of 130 km/h, and a flight range of up to 35 kilometres.

At the initial stage, authorities are considering the launch of demonstration and sightseeing flights lasting 5 to 30 minutes over Kazakhstan's natural, cultural, and historical landmarks. In the longer term, autonomous passenger aircraft could become part of the country's modern transport infrastructure, complementing existing mobility solutions.

The project also envisions a broad range of practical applications. Autonomous aerial systems could be used for emergency medical response, medical supply deliveries, firefighting operations, logistics, and other missions where speed and rapid response are critical.

Another key component of the initiative is the development of domestic manufacturing. As part of an international partnership, Kazakhstan plans to localize the production of autonomous passenger aircraft, helping to build new capabilities in high-tech manufacturing, create skilled jobs, and expand industrial cooperation.

The Ministry of Transport, together with other relevant government agencies, is carrying out comprehensive work to establish the legal and infrastructure framework required for the introduction of Urban Air Mobility (UAM). Kazakhstan has already adopted legislative amendments regulating the operation of eVTOL aircraft, the development and operation of vertiports, and uncrewed traffic management (UTM) systems. These measures provide the necessary foundation for the safe integration of next-generation air mobility technologies into the country's transport system.