Vincent Tan becomes first Malaysian to fly aboard pilotless electric air taxi
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| Tan Sri Vincent Tan flew aboard EHang’s EH216-S, an autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, at the company’s headquarters in Guangzhou. Berjaya Corporation Berhad Picture |
Free newspaper-turned-news portal the Sun reported yesterday that Berjaya Group founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan has become the first Malaysian to fly aboard a pilotless electric air taxi, taking a ride on an autonomous aircraft during a visit to China.
Tan flew aboard EHang’s EH216-S, an autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, at the company’s headquarters in Guangzhou.
In a self-recorded video posted by Berjaya Corporation on social media, Tan described the experience as being better than travelling by helicopter.
“The noise wasn’t too bad, I didn’t use headphones,” he said in the video.
As the aircraft prepared for take-off, Tan could be heard saying, “OK, we’re gonna take off now,” before reacting with a “Wow”.
“I think this is better than a helicopter,” he said.
Tan also used his mobile phone to record the flight from inside the aircraft.
In a LinkedIn reply, Berjaya Corporation said the technology may be expensive today but could become more accessible as it develops, potentially making “The Jetsons” or “The Fifth Element”-style travel a reality for the masses.
The two-seater EH216-S is designed for short-range, low-altitude passenger flights without an onboard pilot, with the aircraft operated autonomously.
The flight comes as Malaysia steps up preparations for the emerging low-altitude economy, including advanced air mobility and eVTOL operations.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) published its proposed Malaysia Low Altitude Economy Framework on Aug 3, outlining the country’s strategic direction for the safe, secure and sustainable development of the sector.
The public consultation is scheduled to close on 2 September 2026.
The proposed framework includes advanced air mobility as part of the emerging low-altitude economy and is intended to facilitate coordination among the government, industry and other stakeholders.
Malaysia has been exploring eVTOL technology for several years as the technology develops towards potential commercial applications, the Sun said.
| By Fauzi Kadir Chief Editor
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Final editing and brought to you by Fauzi Kadir CHIEF EDITOR |
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