Federal regulators have officially paved the way for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to operate in U.S. airspace alongside planes and helicopters, marking a significant win for the growing industry. This decision comes just in time for startups like Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, which are planning to commercially launch their air taxi networks by 2025.
On Tuesday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released its long-awaited final ruling on integrating “powered-lift” vehicles—a category created to accommodate eVTOLs. These aircraft can take off and land like helicopters but fly like airplanes.FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker hailed the ruling as a historic milestone, as it introduces the first new aircraft category in nearly 80 years, facilitating broader Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) operations in the future.
The new rules also clarify pilot training requirements and operational guidelines, including powered-lift pilot certifications and the use of flight simulation devices for training. The tailored operating rules allow eVTOLs the flexibility to operate under both helicopter and airplane regulations.
Companies like Joby, Archer, Beta Technologies, and Wisk Aero have been working closely with the FAA since 2022 to shape these regulations for urban air taxi networks, defense, cargo, and medical logistics. Greg Bowles, head of government affairs at Joby Aviation, stated that the ruling aligns perfectly with their system designs, including cockpit and energy reserves.
Bowles further emphasized that Joby will commence commercial operations once it secures its type certification from the FAA. This certification ensures that the design of Joby’s aircraft and critical components meet the necessary safety and airworthiness standards. Currently, Joby is in the fourth of five stages of the type certification process and has recently received a $500 million investment from Toyota to help propel it toward completion.
Hot News!
