Registration Open

Chairperson’s Welcome Address

Nicolas Zart, Founder, Electric Air Mobility/Vertiport Infrastructure, LLC.

Paving The Way To eVTOL Commercialization

Eric Allison, Chief Product Officer, Joby Aviation

Joby Aviation’s path to commercializing eVTOL aircraft, unpacking the evolving regulatory framework, rising market demand, and the critical role of partnerships in building a sustainable eVTOL ecosystem. Gain insights into overcoming public perception hurdles, scaling manufacturing, and achieving certification milestones essential for urban and regional air mobility. Essential for manufacturers aiming to capitalize on this fast-growing sector.

The Promise Of Energy-Efficient Battery-Powered Urban Aircraft: Advances, Challenges, And Technological Readiness

Venkat Viswanathan, Faculty at University of Michigan, Co-Founder, And Battery Aero

Battery requirements tailored to eVTOL applications, focusing on critical design factors like disk loading and lift-to-drag ratios that impact energy efficiency. Examine the technological maturity of current battery solutions for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and gain insights from case studies on pioneering eVTOL models by Joby, Lilium, Beta Technologies, EVE, Archer, and Volocopter. Additionally, the session addresses regulatory hurdles and the essential role of safety standards in driving the adoption of eVTOL technology.

Integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): Navigating The Future Of Airspace Operations

Shawn Kozica, Deputy Director, FAA, Office of NextGen

The integration of AAM platforms into controlled and uncontrolled airspace, focusing on technical, regulatory, and environmental hurdles. Key topics include the technical requirements for seamless AAM integration into existing airspace, advances in real-time conflict detection through autonomous air traffic management, and energy management for electric propulsion—covering energy density, power delivery, and thermal regulation.

Advancing eVTOL HIL/SIL Validation Testing: Innovations From Tip-To-Battery-To-Tail

Peter Blume, President, Bloomy

Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) and Systems Integration Lab (SIL) testing, critical for validating and certifying electric aircraft systems. We will cover component and system-level testing of autonomous controls, battery management, and avionics, as well as streamlined architectures for eVTOL applications and gain insights into scalable HIL/SIL setups that enhance safety, reduce costs, and accelerate eVTOL time-to-market.

The Future Of eVTOL MRO

Manoj Singh, Executive VP, Ramco Systems

The future of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) for eVTOLs, highlighting how it diverges from traditional aircraft MRO. Key areas include the use of advanced analytics, digital twins, and predictive maintenance for electric propulsion and battery systems; also unique material challenges, collaboration opportunities among MRO providers and manufacturers, and the evolving regulatory landscape shaping eVTOL MRO practices.

Faster eVTOL Charging, Extending Range, And Propagation Prevention Through Advanced Battery Thermal Management

Bret Trimmer, Applications Engineering Manager, NeoGraf Solutions

Optimizing thermal management for eVTOL batteries, covering best practices for maintaining performance. Key topics include factors influencing fast charging, strategies to prevent thermal runaway, and the advantages of flexible graphite over aluminum in lightweight applications.

Enhancing eVTOL Performance With Advanced High Power And High Voltage Connectivity Solutions

Dave Amet, Business Development Manager – EVTOL Electric & Hybrid Aviation, Amphenol

Advanced high-power, high-voltage connectors are essential for overcoming eVTOL system challenges, ensuring reliable connectivity for high-power applications. We will look at customizable designs tailored to eVTOL needs, advanced contact technologies that boost connector performance and durability, and solutions for high-altitude operation without partial discharge.

Morning Networking Break

Morning Networking Break Sponsor

eVTOL Mission Simulation For Optimized Energy Management

Michael Bambula, Technical Simulation Specialist, AVL List GmbH

Advanced mission simulation plays a vital role in predicting energy consumption across diverse operational scenarios, using multi-physics models to analyze propulsion systems. This approach enables eVTOL manufacturers to forecast energy needs, identify efficiency strategies, validate hardware performance, and optimize energy management for real-world applications.

eVTOL Battery Analysis: Unique Operating Demands

Ilias Belharouak, Head of Electrification Section, Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Explore the cutting-edge R&D shaping eVTOL batteries, addressing unique power requirements across flight phases like takeoff and hover. Key focus areas include managing high temperatures from rapid power draws, evaluating lithium-ion performance under extreme conditions, and developing materials that boost energy density. Advanced testing simulates real-world flight to assess chemical and structural changes in battery materials, with new ORNL electrolytes aiming to enhance capacity retention and longevity.

Powering eVTOL With The Promise Of Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Dennis Wang, Lead Systems Engineer, Lyten

Explore alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, addressing challenges like mineral dependency, costs, and safety risks. This session delves into the potential of lithium-sulfur batteries, which offer high energy density, lighter weight, and improved safety, eliminating the need for metals like nickel and cobalt. Breakthroughs, including 3D graphene, are accelerating lithium-sulfur technology, promising a faster transition to this innovative chemistry and paving the way for broader electrification.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells In eVTOL: Overcoming Technical And Safety Barriers For Sustainable Aviation

John Piasecki, President & CEO, Piasecki Aircraft Corporation

This session explores the integration of hydrogen fuel cell technology in eVTOLs, covering key lessons and challenges in implementation. Attendees will gain insights into current eVTOL projects using hydrogen fuel cells, with a focus on energy efficiency, extended range, and reduced environmental impact. Critical safety protocols for hydrogen storage and handling are discussed, alongside future advancements, regulatory trends, and the potential for widespread adoption in urban air mobility.

Advanced Composites In eVTOL: Driving Efficiency And Lightweight Design For Next-Gen Aircraft

DeWayne Howell, Application Development and Expert Service Field Manager, Toray Advanced Composites

We explore the critical role of advanced composite materials—such as thermosets, thermoplastics, and fiber-reinforced composites—in eVTOL design, from structural to propulsion and interior components. Key areas include composite battery enclosures for thermal safety, lightweight materials in propulsion for efficiency, and fiber-reinforced structures that improve performance and range. Additionally, attendees will learn about surface protection methods like lightning strike and galvanic barriers, ensuring durability and operational resilience across demanding environments.

Networking Lunch Break

Revolutionizing Airports For The eVTOL Era: Infrastructure, Safety, And The Future Of Urban Air Mobility

Max Schamel, Enterprise Account Executive, PTC

Bryan Bernhard, Chief Growth and Infrastructure Officer, Archer Aviation

Bert Ganoung, Aircraft Noise Abatement Manager, San Francisco International Airport

Samuel Ingalls, Principal, Barich

Gina Dew, Director, Government and Community Relations, Tampa International Airport

Mike Di Cosola, CEO, Vertiport Infrastructure Systems Corp(VISC)

Felipe Varon, Founder& CEO, VARON Advanced Air Mobility

Patrick Gould, Chief Commercial Officer, Skyway

Exploring the transformation of airports for Urban Air Mobility (UAM), this session addresses the infrastructure upgrades required for eVTOL operations, such as vertiports and charging stations. It covers regulatory frameworks, safety protocols, and the economic and environmental impacts of eVTOL integration. With a focus on enhancing passenger experience and fostering collaboration between airports, manufacturers, and regulators, this session lays out a roadmap for creating a seamless, sustainable ecosystem for UAM.

Noise Reduction And Sound Optimization: Predictive Analysis, Modeling, And The Application Of Lightweight Thermal-Acoustic Materials

Tom Burns, Bd. Cert. INCE, Senior Acoustical Engineer & Lab Manager, The Soundcoat Company

Using predictive analysis and modeling to enhance product design, focusing on reducing cabin noise and improving sound quality. It covers lightweight, FAA- and EASA-compliant noise-damping materials, such as composites, foams, and polymers, optimized for acoustic insulation and energy efficiency. Key strategies include multi-layer insulation systems, material selection for cabin interiors, and balancing noise reduction with lightweight design to maintain flight efficiency.

Immobilized Sulfur Cathodes: Pioneering The Future Of Li-S Batteries For eVTOLs

Rob Murano, Senior Director of Product Development & Commercialization, Coherent Corp.

Sulfur, a cost-effective material, shows promise as a high-capacity cathode for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. Innovations in sulfur and selenium chemical immobilization are addressing traditional limitations like cycle life and energy density, enabling sulfur as a durable, high-performance cathode. This breakthrough offers eVTOL designers safer, lighter, and more efficient battery options, with a clear timeline for Li-S advancements tailored for aviation needs, guiding stakeholders on commercial viability for eVTOL applications.

Optimizing Size Weight And Power (SWaP) For eVTOL Aircraft

Matt McAlonis, Aerospace Fellow, TE Connectivity

This session delves into advanced design strategies for creating lightweight, efficient eVTOL components without sacrificing functionality. Key areas include optimizing size, weight, and power (SWaP) for propulsion systems, ensuring redundancy and durability under environmental stresses, and achieving scalable manufacturing processes. Attendees will also explore lifecycle management to reduce maintenance, innovative materials, and system designs that enhance power management and connect seamlessly with battery technology.

Innovations In Control Laws For Advanced Air Mobility: Exploring Technological Advancements, Safety, And Efficiency In Next-Generation Air Transportation Systems

Soummya Datta, Head of Engineering, Pivotal

Vivek Chugh, Manager of Guidance, Navigation & Controls, Pivotal

Control law technology, human-machine interface design, and automation for advanced air mobility (AAM). Attendees will learn about AI-driven autonomous flight systems, key principles for intuitive pilot interfaces, and the unique training needs for AAM operators. Future trends, including emerging technologies that enhance safety, efficiency, and user experience in AAM, are also highlighted, providing a roadmap for addressing current and upcoming industry challenges.

Cobalt-Iron Stacks For Volume Production In Aerospace And Urban Air Mobility

Niklas Volbers, Director Advanced Research, VAC Magnetics, LLC

The advantages of Cobalt-Iron (CoFe) alloys in aviation electrical propulsion, offering unmatched induction for a 20-30% boost in torque and power density. Key topics include the importance of precision in producing lamination stacks with segmented solutions for aerospace, quality control processes that assess magnetic properties throughout production, and the role of vertical integration and R&D in scaling CoFe stacks for high-quality aviation applications.

Fast-Track Development Of eVTOL With HIL

Joe Orlando, Sales Engineer, Speedgoat

Bringing eVTOL to market involves rigorous testing of critical systems like battery management, propulsion, and flight controllers. This session focuses on model-based development and real-time testing, covering hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing for battery management systems using emulated batteries, HIL testing of motor drives with Simulink®-Programmable FPGAs for power electronics, and automated, requirements-based testing of flight controllers from prototype to deployment using continuous integration.

Afternoon Networking Break

Unlocking The Future: Opportunities And Challenges For eVTOLs And Their Infrastructure

Tiffany Nesbit, CTO, LuftCar

Innovative applications for eVTOLs in both air and road-based transportation, highlighting hydrogen’s pivotal role as a sustainable energy source. Attendees will explore global hydrogen initiatives advancing eVTOL technology and gain insights into the growing momentum toward widespread eVTOL adoption.

Advancing eVTOL Logistics: FAA Approvals, BVLOS, And Autonomous Capabilities

Manal Habib, CEO, MightyFly

This session highlights the importance of FAA-approved flight corridors for eVTOLs, supporting regulatory progress and large-scale logistics testing. Attendees will explore BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) testing with chase planes, enabling safe, long-range autonomous flights. The session also examines the Cento drone, a hybrid model capable of autonomously carrying 100 lbs over 600 miles, and showcases real-world cargo drone applications in manufacturing, healthcare, remote industries, and defense for efficient logistics solutions.

Addressing The Challenges Of Vertiport Development For eVTOL Integration

Nicolas Zart, Founder, Electric Air Mobility/Vertiport Infrastructure, LLC.

Key topics include selecting optimal urban locations, integrating with existing transport infrastructure, and meeting structural and energy requirements. We also cover sustainable energy solutions, navigating certification with aviation authorities, coordinating with air traffic control, and creating new airspace management protocols for a scalable, safe urban air mobility network.

Engineering Safety And Reliability: Mastering Certification And Advanced Design For eVTOL Airworthiness

Martin Peryea, SVP and GM of Electric Air Mobility, Jaunt Air Mobility

Achieving airworthiness certification for eVTOLs, ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards for commercial use. We will cover advanced safety methods for risk management, crashworthy designs to enhance passenger protection, engineering for stable transitions between flight modes, and robust safety measures during power failures, leveraging redundancy and technology to maintain passenger security.

How To Prevent A Certification Hangover

Aaron Koopman, Director of Airworthiness and Certification, COLLINEAR GROUP

This engaging session offers a humorous, practical guide to navigating aerospace certification, sharing insights from over 35 years in the field. Topics include the pitfalls of shortcuts, managing design freeze and changes, and building robust design requirements with certification in mind. Attendees will learn how certification can be a valuable asset, reinforcing market position. Ideal for engineers, managers, and executives, this interactive 15-minute session provides actionable tips to streamline certification and avoid costly missteps.

Closing Remarks

Nicolas Zart, Founder, Electric Air Mobility

Evening Drinks Reception

Drinks Reception Sponsor