XPeng eVTOL Aircraft Collide During Changchun Airshow Rehearsal, Causing Fire and Injury
Two XPeng Huitian electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft collided during a formation flying drill at a Changchun airshow rehearsal on September 16, 2025. One aircraft landed safely while the other caught fire during landing. At least one passenger was reportedly injured.
What happened
During a rehearsal for the Changchun Airshow on September 16, 2025, two XPeng Huitian eVTOL aircraft engaged in formation flying training collided due to insufficient flying distance.
One aircraft landed safely while the other sustained damage to its fuselage and caught fire during landing.
Reported impact
At least one passenger was injured and received medical treatment, with no life-threatening injuries reported.
Index analysis
Industry observers noted that eVTOL systems typically operate in both autonomous and manual remote control modes, and accidents can result from flawed flight path planning, equipment malfunctions, or operational errors.
The incident highlighted the complexity of low-altitude airspace operations and underscored the need for heightened safety protocols across the industry.
Governance controls
XPeng Huitian confirmed the incident and stated it was investigating the specific cause.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.