Federal regulators have given a significant boost to electric-powered air taxis by issuing a final rule for the operation of the aircraft and the training of pilots. The head of the Federal Aviation Administration, Mike Whitaker, stated that the rule acknowledges air taxis as a new type of aircraft that will soon be seen alongside airplanes and helicopters in the sky.
These air taxis have the ability to take off and land vertically like helicopters, but they can also fly like fixed-wing planes. Many companies have been working towards bringing these aircraft to the market, but the lack of clear regulations has been a hindrance.
Whitaker emphasized the importance of safety as the FAA works to integrate these new aircraft into the national airspace. He mentioned that “powered-lift aircraft” represent the first new category of aircraft in almost 80 years, since the introduction of helicopters, and the rule will enable their widespread operation.
Supporters of air taxis view them as a cleaner alternative to passenger planes that rely on jet fuel. While current technology limits their size and suggests that they will be primarily used in urban areas, companies have plans to transport both people and cargo.
One of the companies leading in this field, Joby Aviation based in California, commended the FAA regulation. CEO JoeBen Bevirt stated that the rules will help the U.S. maintain a global leadership role in the development and adoption of clean flight.
Airlines are looking at air taxis as a means to transport passengers to airports. Delta Air Lines announced a $60 million investment in Joby in 2022, and Toyota recently revealed a $500 million investment. United Airlines is supporting another California-based company, Archer Aviation, with an order for 200 aircraft that could potentially be worth $1 billion, with an option for an additional $500 million.
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