FAA Clears Way for Air Taxis with New Rule
Key Ideas
- FAA introduces a new aircraft category, 'powered-lift,' allowing for electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered air taxis in the national airspace, focusing on safety.
- The final rule sets qualifications and operational requirements for pilots flying powered-lift aircraft, a key step for advanced air mobility like air taxis and cargo delivery in the US.
- The rule aims to integrate air taxis and eVTOLs into the airspace, addressing operational requirements, training protocols, and facilitating certification for powered-lift pilots.
- The industry responds positively to the new rule, with stakeholders emphasizing the potential for cleaner flight solutions, urban air mobility, and investments in air taxi services.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is paving the way for the operation of air taxis and similar vehicles across the United States by introducing a new rule that creates a 'powered-lift' aircraft category, encompassing electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered air taxis. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker highlighted the importance of safety in integrating these new aircraft into the nation's airspace. The rule establishes qualifications and operational requirements for pilots of powered-lift aircraft, a significant development for advanced air mobility (AAM) operations such as air taxis and cargo delivery. The announcement was made at a civil aviation trade show in Las Vegas.
This new rule marks a crucial step towards realizing futuristic Urban Air Mobility (UAM) concepts, with low-altitude urban aircraft like eVTOLs garnering global interest. The FAA's emphasis on safety includes addressing operational and training requirements for pilots in the powered-lift category, streamlining certification processes. Additionally, the rule facilitates the integration of air taxis and eVTOLs into the National Airspace System, enabling various urban and short-haul operations.
Industry stakeholders, including air taxi companies and airlines like Delta Air Lines, have welcomed the rule, noting its potential to drive innovation in cleaner flight technologies and urban transportation solutions. Investments in air taxi services, such as the partnership between Delta Air Lines and Joby Aviation, highlight the growing interest in air mobility services for passengers and cargo. The industry's positive response underscores the rule's role in shaping the future landscape of air travel and urban mobility.