Hyundai Motor Group’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) startup, Supernal, has recently suspended its aircraft development program following significant leadership departures and organizational restructuring. This development marks a pivotal moment for the company, which had ambitious plans to revolutionize urban air mobility.
Leadership Departures and Organizational Shifts
In late August 2025, Supernal announced the resignation of its CEO, Jaiwon Shin, who transitioned into an advisory role within Hyundai Motor Group. Shin had been at the helm since Supernal’s inception in 2021, steering the company’s vision and strategic direction. The company stated that Shin had laid the groundwork for technology development, and new leadership was deemed necessary to accelerate the commercialization phase.
Shortly after Shin’s departure, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) David McBride also left the company. McBride, a former NASA director with over four decades of aerospace experience, had joined Supernal in March 2024 to oversee the development of the company’s eVTOL aircraft, aiming for a 2028 commercial launch. His departure, coupled with Shin’s, has prompted a comprehensive reassessment of Supernal’s project timelines and strategic objectives.
Operational Pause and Workforce Reductions
The leadership changes have led to a temporary halt in Supernal’s aircraft development program. The company had been progressing towards its first untethered test flight, following initial tethered tests conducted earlier in the year. However, with the recent executive departures, the newly appointed leadership is evaluating the optimal timeline for moving forward.
In addition to the operational pause, Supernal has undergone significant organizational changes. In December 2024, the company relocated its global headquarters from Washington, D.C., to Irvine, California, affecting approximately 5% of its workforce. This move was intended to enhance collaboration and communication across teams. However, earlier this summer, the company laid off dozens of employees ahead of the executive shakeup, indicating broader challenges within the organization.
Industry Context and Future Prospects
Supernal’s challenges come at a time when the eVTOL industry is experiencing significant upheaval. While some startups, like Toyota-backed Joby Aviation, have been securing funding and announcing partnerships, others, such as Lilium, have ceased operations. This dynamic landscape underscores the complexities and uncertainties inherent in pioneering new modes of transportation.
Despite the current setbacks, Supernal had previously announced partnerships with private jet charter firms and helicopter operators to support the development of air taxi infrastructure. The company had plans to launch a five-seat, battery-powered eVTOL for intra-city passenger transport by 2028. However, with the recent leadership changes and operational pause, these plans are under review.
David Rottblatt, Supernal’s senior business development director, is currently overseeing business operations as Interim Chief Operating Officer during this transitional period. Hyundai Motor Group plans to appoint new leadership with deep expertise in business operations to advance urban air mobility solutions and guide the organization into its next phase of growth.
Conclusion
Supernal’s recent leadership changes and operational pause reflect the broader challenges facing the nascent eVTOL industry. As the company navigates this transitional period, the future of its ambitious plans for urban air mobility remains uncertain. The coming months will be crucial in determining how Supernal adapts to these challenges and whether it can regain momentum in its quest to revolutionize urban transportation.
