FAA rule creates ‘operating environment’ for ‘air taxis’

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued the final rule for air taxis and other electric-powered aircraft Tuesday, calling the regulations the “final piece in the puzzle” to introducing these aircraft types.

The final regulation lays out the qualifications and training required for instructors and pilots to fly aircraft in the “powered lift” category, along with the operational requirements for the electric-powered aircraft, the FAA said in its announcement.

These aircraft can take off and land vertically like a helicopter and can also fly like fixed-wing planes. Various companies are working to introduce electric-powered air taxis, though the lack of clear regulations has presented challenges, The Associated Press reported.

FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker noted the powered lift category is the first new aircraft category in nearly 80 years. The aircraft type offers “far-reaching” opportunities, the agency said, including bringing passengers in urban areas or bringing air ambulance service and cargo operations to smaller communities.

Developers of electric vehicle aircraft say that one day they will be able to shuttle individuals or small groups of people from rooftops and parking garages to their locations to avoid traffic below.

“The FAA will continue to prioritize the safety of our system as we work to seamlessly integrate innovative technology and operations. This final rule provides the necessary framework to allow powered lift aircraft to safely operate in our airspace,” Whitaker said.

Supporters of the aircraft argue they offer a clean alternative to plans burning jet fuel.

Major airlines have taken an interest in the emerging technology, including Delta Air Lines, which invested nearly $60 million in startup Joby Aviation in 2022. Toyota announced a $500 million investment in Joby earlier this month, while United Airlines said in 2021 it would buy up to 200 small electric air taxis from startup Archer.

The Associated Press contributed.