## Supernal and Blade Join Forces to Revolutionize Urban Air Mobility
The future of urban transportation is taking flight as Supernal LLC, the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) division of Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), and Blade Urban Air Mobility, Inc. (Blade) announced a strategic partnership during the 2024 NBAA-BACE event. This collaboration aims to explore the potential for developing comprehensive AAM networks and efficient fleet operations, paving the way for a new era of air travel.
The partnership will see Supernal and Blade working together to develop a range of innovative AAM use cases in mutually interested markets. This includes exploring the feasibility of using Supernal’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles for various applications, including air taxis, organ transplant transportation, and other cutting-edge solutions. These collaborations will be crucial in shaping the future of AAM services and contributing to the advancement of Supernal’s eVTOL technology.
Over the course of their three-year agreement, both companies will leverage their combined expertise in aviation, technology, and infrastructure to accelerate the development of the AAM sector. Supernal will share valuable insights into the technical and operational aspects of its eVTOL product, aiding Blade in shaping its future AAM services. In return, Blade, a leader in air transport platforms, will work alongside its operator partners to provide valuable feedback on Supernal’s aircraft design, focusing on crucial areas like safety, upgradeability, passenger experience, and adaptability across various markets.
“As Supernal prepares to finalize our eVTOL features, it is critical we collaborate with experienced commercial partners like Blade to ensure our eVTOL’s cabin features align with passenger expectations for comfort, safety and efficiency in the next generation of inter-city mobility,” said David Rottblatt, senior director of strategy and commercialization, Supernal. “Supernal and Blade’s partnership underscores how the Advanced Air Mobility industry has evolved: The dialogue is no longer about the feasibility of eVTOL technology, but rather how it can be optimized to suit existing commercial platforms and operators.”
Supernal and Blade are also joining forces to explore innovative solutions for capital, infrastructure, and development to further advance the AAM industry. To achieve this shared goal, they will conduct scenario planning using hypothetical routes and networks in New York City, focusing on real-world applications of AAM technology. The partnership will also actively seek out strategic commercial opportunities in regions of shared interest, including Southern California, leveraging Supernal’s eVTOL vehicles and Blade’s air charter broker platforms to optimize AAM operations.
“Our goal is to make aviation more accessible by preparing to adopt eVTOL aircraft,” said Melissa Tomkiel, president and general counsel, Blade. “In combining Blade’s expertise with Supernal’s forward-thinking innovations, this partnership is poised to accelerate Advanced Air Mobility development and enable quiet, safe and emission-free transportation.”
Attendees at the 2024 NBAA-BACE event can get a firsthand look at Supernal’s eVTOL product concept vehicle, the S-A2, through a virtual reality experience available at Blade’s Lounge at Henderson Executive Airport. This immersive experience offers a closer look at the innovative design and features of the S-A2, showcasing the future of urban air travel. Visitors can also book Blade shuttle flights during the event for added convenience.
The partnership between Supernal and Blade is a significant step forward in the development of urban air mobility. By combining their expertise and resources, they aim to bring the promise of safe, efficient, and sustainable air travel to cities around the world, revolutionizing the way we travel in the years to come.