Flying taxis are set to take off in the United States with new regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These guidelines are paving the way for a new era of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. This marks the first new aircraft category in nearly 80 years. These VTOLs, which include electric-powered options, are designed to take off like helicopters but transition to flying like planes. This makes them ideal for passenger and cargo air taxis.
FAA’s New “Powered-Lift” Aircraft Category
The FAA’s new rules establish a “powered-lift” category that will govern the operation of flying taxis. These aircraft represent the future of urban transportation, promising to ease congestion by offering a faster, airborne alternative. FAA administrator Mike Whitaker says this rule will soon enable Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) operations on a large scale.
The regulations also address pilot qualifications, training, and operational standards. VTOL aircraft will follow helicopter-like rules during certain phases of flight, but with performance-based approaches for others. This shift allows pilots to train with only a single set of controls, streamlining the process of learning to operate these unique aircraft.
Growing Interest in Flying Taxis
While no type-certified powered-lift aircraft are yet in civil operation, several companies, including Archer, Joby, and Wisk, are developing electric VTOLs under these new rules. Joby, which received a limited flight license last year, praised the FAA’s use of flight simulators for certification training, aligning with the company’s vision.
The introduction of flying taxis holds the potential to revolutionize urban transportation in the US. With the FAA’s final rules in place, the future of air mobility is closer than ever.
Read More: American elections getting improved technology ahead of polls
