Summary
- FAA has published final rule on electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft
- eVTOL aircraft will be a new category of aircraft, the first since helicopters were introduced in 1940
- The final rule aims to facilitate certification of powered-lift pilots and clarify operating rules
- Companies like Joby and Archer Aviation are pleased with the final rule as it paves the way for electric air taxi service
- FAA’s historic rule will help accommodate wide-scale Advanced Air Mobility operations in the future
Article
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has published a final rule on electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, or air taxis. This rule includes amendments and regulations to facilitate the certification of powered-lift pilots, clarify operating rules, and integrate powered-lift into the National Airspace System. The FAA has adopted alternate frameworks to certify pilots seeking qualifications in powered-lift with single functioning flight controls and a single pilot station. This rule marks the first new category of aircraft since helicopters were introduced in 1940.
The new FAA rule will pave the way for accommodating wide-scale Advanced Air Mobility operations in the future. This development is crucial for eVTOL aircraft companies that have been eagerly awaiting the rule to launch trial electric air taxi services. The regulation ensures that the U.S. maintains a global leadership role in the development and adoption of clean flight technology. JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby, praised the dedication, coordination, and hard work of the FAA rulemaking team in delivering the rules ahead of schedule.
Archer Aviation expressed satisfaction with the FAA’s final powered-lift SFAR, noting that it provides clear direction for the safe operation of eVTOL aircraft in the U.S. The SFAR expanded the ability to use flight simulator technology in pilot training and qualification programs, and allowed for streamlined pathways for pilot certification. Additionally, the rule allows aircraft to take advantage of certain helicopter operating rules as long as appropriate risk mitigations are followed and provides workable provisions for cross country experience requirements.
In terms of industry developments, Archer Aviation, Joby, and other eVTOL companies are progressing towards launching their electric air taxi services with the support of the new FAA rule. The rule has established a framework for the certification of pilots and the safe operation of eVTOL aircraft. Companies like Archer are utilizing the rule’s provisions to enhance pilot training programs, comply with fuel reserves requirements, and meet cross country experience requirements. This milestone represents a significant step forward for the Advanced Air Mobility sector and marks an important achievement in regulatory progress for electric aircraft.
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