Digitalisation and automation are reshaping how people travel between cities and regions. Advances in hydrogen-electric propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), and modular infrastructure are enabling new forms of regional air mobility- linking underutilised airports and remote areas more efficiently. This case-study examines two Aero EDIH-supported startups, Lyte Aviation and Eenuee, and how each is addressing specific gaps in passenger mobility.
Lyte Aviation – SkyBus LA-44: A Hybrid VTOL for Regional Mass Transit
Lyte Aviation, headquartered in London and founded in 2020, is developing the LA-44 SkyBus, a 40-seat hybrid hydrogen-electric VTOL targeting regional passenger transport. The aircraft combines turbine engines running on SAF with hydrogen fuel-cell electric motors, offering a range up to 1,000 km (approximately equivalent to 620 miles) and speeds around 300 km/h (approximately equivalent to 186 mph).
Lyte Aviation, headquartered in London and founded in 2020, is developing the LA-44 SkyBus, a 40-seat hybrid hydrogen-electric VTOL targeting regional passenger transport. The aircraft combines turbine engines running on SAF with hydrogen fuel-cell electric motors, offering a range up to 1,000 km (approximately equivalent to 620 miles) and speeds around 300 km/h (approximately equivalent to 186 mph).
Lyte has secured approximately €920 million in pre-orders for SkyBus and its cargo variant, including interest from operators like Vman Aviation and Ghenus Air targeting routes in Asia, the US, and Europe. A full-scale prototype is expected within the next 24 months, with serial production aimed for 2028 2029.
Visit website: www.lyteaviation.com
Aero EDIH Support: Lyte have received both pre investment preparation and connect to investor services from Aero EDIH
Eenuee – Gen-ee: Electric Blended-Wing Amphibious Aircraft
Eenuee, based in Saint-Étienne, France and founded in 2019, is developing the Gen-ee, a fully electric 19-seat blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft designed for regional mobility across land and water surfaces. The aircraft aims to operate from short runways (600 m) and water thanks to its retractable hydrofoil-based amphibious gear.
Eenuee, based in Saint-Étienne, France and founded in 2019, is developing the Gen-ee, a fully electric 19-seat blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft designed for regional mobility across land and water surfaces. The aircraft aims to operate from short runways (600 m) and water thanks to its retractable hydrofoil-based amphibious gear.
Eenuee currently operates a 1/7 scale demonstrator (4 m wingspan) that has flown since late 2023. It is developing an 8 m wingspan demonstrator by 2026 with support from Duqueine Group, a composite materials specialist working with regional partners. The plan is for a full-scale prototype by 2029 and commercial operations by approximately 2032, producing 50–100 aircraft annually by 2035.
Visit website: www.eenuee.com
Aero EDIH support: EENUEE have received pre investment preparation and connect to investor services
Both startups embody Aero EDIH’s objectives of automating and decarbonizing regional mobility. Lyte Aviation leverages hybrid propulsion and vertiport networks to offer scalable shuttle services. Eenuee focuses on simplicity and access, using blended-wing and amphibious design to serve regions with limited infrastructure.
Supported by Aero EDIH, these companies have met with stakeholders that can advance vehicles, infrastructure, and regulatory pathways that could integrate into digitally managed transport networks. Together, they illustrate a pragmatic evolution toward regional mobility that is more sustainable, efficient, and accessible.
