Austrian eVTOL Developer FlyNow Relocates HQ to Saudi Arabia
FlyNow, the developer of pilotless electric aircraft for air taxi services, logistics, and emergency response, has officially moved its global headquarters to Riyadh.
The strategic decision, following FlyNow Arabia Ltd.’s acquisition of a majority stake in FlyNow Aviation GmbH in Austria, positions FlyNow as the first Saudi company focused on developing and manufacturing next-generation flying taxis and cargo drones.
FlyNow’s eCopter is a compact, fully electric aircraft that flies automatically along predefined routes without a pilot. It produces zero operational emissions, operates at around 55 dB(A), and has running costs comparable to a ground taxi. Configurations support up to two passengers or 200 kg of cargo, ranges of up to 50 km and speeds of up to 130 km/h. Missions include passenger transport, cargo, firefighting, medical evacuation and remote operations.
Depending on its configuration, the eCopter can transport up to two passengers or 200 kilograms of cargo, fly up to 50 kilometres at speeds of up to 130 km/h, and support missions including firefighting, medical evacuation, urgent deliveries, and remote operations.
Founded in Salzburg, Austria, in 2019, FlyNow completed extensive European flight testing before relocating. CEO Yvonne Winter said: “Saudi Arabia is no longer just FlyNow’s first market. It is our home.”
The move supports Vision 2030 goals of localising advanced aviation technology, building industrial capacity and creating skilled jobs. FlyNow is preparing to begin eCopter flight tests in Riyadh through the SALAAM.earth Automated Air Mobility sandbox, which will integrate aircraft, vertiports, air traffic management and safety systems. The eCopter will be the first aircraft tested in the programme.
The transition supports Saudi Vision 2030 by localising advanced aviation technology, developing new industrial capabilities, and creating highly skilled employment opportunities.
By anchoring its intellectual property expansion and future manufacturing activities in Saudi Arabia, the company intends to contribute to the growth of a Saudi-made electric aviation industry and strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in urban air mobility (UAM).
FlyNow is also preparing to begin eCopter flight testing in Riyadh through the SALAAM.earth Automated Air Mobility sandbox. The sandbox will bring together the aircraft, vertiports, air traffic management, digital infrastructure, and safety systems required for real-world operations.
