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Larry Page’s flying car company Pivotal loses its CEO
Ken Karklin has stepped down as CEO of Pivotal, the flying car company backed by Larry Page, after over four years in the role. Although he is pursuing new endeavors, his departure occurs after Pivotal started sales of their eVTOL aircraft, Helix. Mike Ross will serve as interim CEO as the company continues its focus on safety and developing aircraft like BlackFly for emergency responses.
Key points
- Ken Karklin has left his position as CEO of Pivotal, stating he is pursuing new endeavors.
- Pivotal's statement does not provide further details on Karklin's departure.
- Karklin's leadership has been pivotal in moving beyond prototypes to operational eVTOL aircraft.
- Mike Ross, who joined the Pivotal board in November 2025, will serve as interim CEO.
- Pivotal's first product, Helix, began sales two years prior and is a lightweight aircraft not requiring a pilot’s license.
- BlackFly, another of Pivotal’s aircraft, was recently used for an emergency response, outperforming traditional ambulances.
- Pivotal participates in the FAA’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program to enhance eVTOL aircraft testing across the country.
Why it matters
- The transition of leadership in Pivotal mirrors the ongoing innovation and instability in the eVTOL industry, reflecting broader trends in aviation technology.
- Karklin's departure and Pivotal's focus on operational aircraft come at a time when the demand for advanced air mobility solutions is increasing as cities look for alternatives to traditional transport.
- Pivotal's participation in the FAA program indicates a supportive regulatory environment for the future of eVTOL integrations, which is crucial for similar companies' success.
Ken Karklin's departure from Pivotal encapsulates the ongoing changes within the rapidly evolving eVTOL industry, as new leadership aims to continue advancing electric flight while addressing market demands.