Air Taxis and Other Electric-Powered Aircraft Cleared For Takeoff

The FAA has released final regulations for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, introducing a new category of aircraft for the first time in nearly 80 years. These rules provide a framework for pilot training and operational requirements, addressing industry concerns while aiming to support the future of advanced air mobility. The Verge reports: The FAA says these 'powered-lift' vehicles will be the first completely new category of aircraft since helicopters were introduced in 1940. These aircraft will be used for a variety of services, including air taxis, cargo delivery, and rescue and retrieval operations. The final rules published today contain guidelines for pilot training as well as operational requirements regarding minimum safe altitudes and visibility. Powered lift includes aircraft described by industry watchers as electric vertical takeoff and landing, or eVTOL. Using tilt rotors, eVTOL aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically like a helicopter and then transition into forward flight on fixed wings like a plane.

A new pilot training and qualifications rule was needed because 'existing regulations did not address this new category of aircraft, which can take off and land vertically like a helicopter and fly like an airplane during cruise flight,' the FAA said. The rule also provides a 'comprehensive framework' for certifying the initial group of powered-lift instructors and pilots. According to the agency, the rule would: 'Makes changes to numerous existing regulations and establishes a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) with new requirements to facilitate instructor and pilot certification and training. Applies helicopter operating requirements to some phases of flight and adopts a performance-based approach to certain operating rules. Allows pilots to train in powered-lift with a single set of flight controls; legacy rules require two flight controls -- one for the student and one for the instructor.' 'The regulation published today will ensure the U.S. continues to play a global leadership role in the development and adoption of clean flight,' said JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby, in a statement. 'Delivering the rules ahead of schedule is testament to the dedication, coordination and hard work of the rulemaking team.'

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