China unveils UFO-shaped eVTOL vehicle capable of urban takeoffs

Published on
19/03/2026 – 9:29 GMT+1

UFOs have been spotted in Wuhan, China… but don’t worry, there are no aliens on board.

It’s actually a real-life flying vehicle – a UFO-shaped eVTOL aircraft – that recently lifted vertically off the ground in China’s Hubei Province, hovered, moved sideways, and landed smoothly.

The demonstration took place at the Optics Valley Low-altitude Economy Park in Wuhan, giving engineers a chance to show off its unusual design and impressive capabilities.

Cai Xiaodong, founder of E-Hawk Technology and president of the Hubei Drone Industry Association, says the aircraft is a “true breakthrough in efficiency and design.”

The first thing you notice is its saucer-like shape, inspired by UFOs. Next are the “invisible wings.” The ducted-fan propulsion system is hidden inside the aircraft, making it safer and giving it a sleek, futuristic appearance.

The aircraft is also built for tight spaces. Its compact, power-integrated design allows it to take off, land, and fly in urban or confined areas with precision – a feature that could be useful in rescue operations or crowded city skies.

And it’s surprisingly powerful for its size. With a maximum takeoff weight of 1.2 tons and a body length of 5.6 metres, the eVTOL can carry four passengers comfortably while keeping generous interior space.

According to Cai, the aircraft has already completed over 140 test flights. In one recent trial, it simulated a rescue on a third-floor balcony, positioning half its fuselage directly over the ledge to carry out the operation.

Wu Yili, a reporter for China News Service, says there is no steering wheel or complicated control panel. Instead, there’s a large screen where passengers can play games, scroll through TikTok, or watch shows.

“The interior is remarkably spacious and comfortable. Sitting here, I can even fully stretch my legs,” Wu says.

Cai Xiaodong says the vehicle is meant to combine compact design, safety, and passenger comfort – a glimpse of what urban air mobility could look like in the future.