Electric air taxi regulations released, federal push_1

In November 2023, Joby Aviation made headlines by conducting a test flight of its electric air taxi in New York City, as reported by the Associated Press. On October 22, federal regulators released new rules governing the operation of electric-powered air taxis and outlined training protocols for pilots operating these aircraft, marking a significant step forward in the development of this emerging technology.

Mike Whitaker, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), noted that these regulations recognize air taxis as a new class of aircraft, which will soon share airspace with conventional airplanes and helicopters. These vehicles are designed to take off and land vertically, similar to helicopters, while flying like fixed-wing airplanes.

Numerous companies are competing to bring electric air taxis to market; however, the unclear regulatory framework has posed challenges. Whitaker emphasized the FAA’s commitment to ensuring safety as these new aircraft are integrated into the national airspace. He stated that “powered-lift aircraft” represents the first new category of aviation since helicopters were introduced nearly 80 years ago, and these rules will facilitate their broad operation.

Proponents of air taxis tout them as cleaner alternatives to jet aircraft, which contribute to air pollution and carbon emissions. Nonetheless, current technology limits the size of air taxis, making them more suitable for urban applications, focusing on both passenger and cargo transport.

Joby Aviation, based in California, is one of the key players in this new field and has expressed strong support for the FAA’s new regulations. CEO JoeBen Bevirt remarked that these rules “will ensure that the U.S. continues to lead globally in the development and application of clean flight.”

Major airlines see air taxis as a viable means of transporting passengers to airports. Delta Air Lines announced a $60 million investment in Joby Aviation in 2022, and earlier this month, Toyota revealed a $500 million commitment.

United Airlines is backing another California-based firm, Archer Aviation, and has placed an order for 200 electric air taxis. Archer Aviation stated that this fleet could be worth up to $1 billion, with an option to add an additional $500 million.