Hyundai’s Supernal Halts Air Taxi Project After Leadership Shake-Up
Hyundai’s electric air taxi division, Supernal, has paused its aircraft development programme. The decision follows the sudden departures of CEO Jaiwon Shin and Chief Technology Officer David McBride, according to a TechCrunch report citing sources familiar with the matter.
Shin, who had led Supernal since its formation in the US in 2021, stepped down last week. McBride’s exit came shortly after. While Supernal has not confirmed the reasons for these departures, the company did state that its newly appointed leadership will review the programme’s timeline and determine the best path forward.
Leadership Changes and Workforce Reductions
The executive exits come amid broader changes at Supernal. Last year, the company relocated its global headquarters from Washington, D.C., to Irvine, California. Around the same time, it laid off approximately 5% of its workforce, a move seen as part of a strategic restructuring.
Supernal had made significant progress in its ambition to enter the advanced air mobility market. It had partnered with a private jet charter firm and a helicopter operator to build infrastructure for its future services. These collaborations were aimed at supporting its battery-powered, five-seat eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft.
2028 Launch Plans Now Uncertain
The company previously announced its goal to launch commercial air taxi services by 2028, targeting short-distance, intra-city travel. However, with development now paused and leadership in transition, this timeline may face delays. Supernal has not confirmed whether the 2028 target remains in place.
Both Hyundai and Supernal have yet to respond to recent media requests for comment. The company has also declined to speak publicly about McBride’s departure.
with inputs from Reuters