Supernal has confirmed that a full-scale technology demonstrator for its planned S-A2 eVTOL aircraft made a first flight more than a month ago on March 1. The California-based company, which had not acknowledged the flight until asked about it by AIN, said that the tethered flight marked a milestone in the work to design, build, integrate, and fly a full-scale, four-passenger aircraft.

The wholly-owned subsidiary of South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Group has said that it aims to certify the S-A2 in 2028. In March, it announced CHC Helicopter as the latest addition to its network of program partners making preparations for various advanced air mobility use cases.

“This is the first of numerous testing milestones in Supernal’s journey to certify and deliver its commercial eVTOL product, S-A2, to operator customers later this decade,” the company said in a statement. “Looking ahead, we will continue to refine test methods that will ensure a successful prototype and future production vehicles.”

According to GKN Aerospace, it has provided over 70% of the airframe for the technology demonstrator that has now started flight testing, including the wing and electrical wiring system. The group, which has design responsibilities for the aircraft’s aerostructures, is also a key partner to other eVTOL aircraft developers, including Archer, Joby, and Vertical Aerospace.

Since unveiling a mockup of the S-A2 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024, Supernal has said very little about progress with the program. Although it is not an FAA requirement, the manufacturer has committed to achieving the 10-9 safety standard required by Europe’s EASA regulator.