China names Aridge, AutoFlight, EHang on first eVTOL fast-track list

China's aviation regulator CAAC published its first airworthiness compliance roster for passenger eVTOL makers, naming four companies including XPeng affiliate Aridge, AutoFlight, and EHang's Guangzhou equipment unit. Companies on the list get streamlined certification processing, priority handling of application materials, and cross-batch recognition of phased test results, shortening the path to commercial eVTOL operations in China.