Flying air taxis approach US launch with new FAA rule approval
AVIATION & AIRPORTS

Flying air taxis approach US launch with new FAA rule approval

Federal regulators took a significant step forward for electric-powered air taxis by issuing a final rule that outlines the operational guidelines for the aircraft and the training protocols for pilots.

Mike Whitaker, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), indicated that the rule acknowledges air taxis as a completely new category of aircraft that will soon join airplanes and helicopters in the airspace. These aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically like helicopters, while flying like fixed-wing planes. Numerous companies are working to bring them to market, but their progress has been hindered by the lack of clear regulations governing their use.

Whitaker emphasized that the FAA is prioritising safety as it integrates these new aircraft into the nation’s airspace. He noted that "powered-lift aircraft" represent the first new category of aircraft in nearly 80 years, since the introduction of helicopters, and this rule will facilitate their widespread operation.

Supporters of air taxis view them as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional passenger planes that rely on jet fuel. However, current technological limitations restrict their size, suggesting that they will primarily be utilized in urban areas. Companies anticipate using these aircraft for transporting both people and cargo.

Joby Aviation, a California-based company in this emerging field, commended the FAA's regulation. CEO JoeBen Bevirt remarked that the rules would ensure that the US maintains its global leadership in the development and adoption of clean flight technology.

Airlines see air taxis as a potential solution for transporting passengers to airports. In 2022, Delta Air Lines announced a $60 million investment in Joby, while Toyota revealed a $500 million investment this month. Additionally, United Airlines is supporting another California-based company, Archer Aviation, with an order for 200 aircraft, which Archer stated could be valued at $1 billion, with an option for an additional 500 million.

Federal regulators took a significant step forward for electric-powered air taxis by issuing a final rule that outlines the operational guidelines for the aircraft and the training protocols for pilots. Mike Whitaker, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), indicated that the rule acknowledges air taxis as a completely new category of aircraft that will soon join airplanes and helicopters in the airspace. These aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically like helicopters, while flying like fixed-wing planes. Numerous companies are working to bring them to market, but their progress has been hindered by the lack of clear regulations governing their use. Whitaker emphasized that the FAA is prioritising safety as it integrates these new aircraft into the nation’s airspace. He noted that powered-lift aircraft represent the first new category of aircraft in nearly 80 years, since the introduction of helicopters, and this rule will facilitate their widespread operation. Supporters of air taxis view them as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional passenger planes that rely on jet fuel. However, current technological limitations restrict their size, suggesting that they will primarily be utilized in urban areas. Companies anticipate using these aircraft for transporting both people and cargo. Joby Aviation, a California-based company in this emerging field, commended the FAA's regulation. CEO JoeBen Bevirt remarked that the rules would ensure that the US maintains its global leadership in the development and adoption of clean flight technology. Airlines see air taxis as a potential solution for transporting passengers to airports. In 2022, Delta Air Lines announced a $60 million investment in Joby, while Toyota revealed a $500 million investment this month. Additionally, United Airlines is supporting another California-based company, Archer Aviation, with an order for 200 aircraft, which Archer stated could be valued at $1 billion, with an option for an additional 500 million.

Next Story
Real Estate

Google India’s New Campus

India continues to cement its position as a global digital powerhouse – and Google’s latest milestone reinforces this trajectory with the inauguration of Ananta, one of its largest offices worldwide. CW explores the design, sustainability and construction aspects of this landmark campus in Bengaluru.Significance of AnantaLocated in Mahadevapura, Bengaluru, Ananta spans 1.6 million sq ft and is situated within Bagmane Tech Park. Named after the Sanskrit word for ‘infinite’, this state-of-the-art, 11-storey facility is Google’s fourth office in Bengaluru. It is designed to foster colla..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Indian Delegation Visits South Africa for Trade and Investment Talks

A nine-member Indian delegation participated in the second session of the India-South Africa Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment (JWGTI) held in Pretoria from 22 to 23 April 2025. Discussions were conducted in a cordial atmosphere, focusing on expanding trade ties, boosting investments, and fostering greater people-to-people exchanges. The meeting was co-chaired by Malose Letsoalo, Chief Director, Bilateral Trade Relations, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa, and Priya Nair, Economic Adviser, Department of Commerce, India. Delegates from the High Commission ..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Ministry of Cooperation Inaugurates NCOL Organic Packaging Facility

The Ministry of Cooperation inaugurated a new state-of-the-art packaging facility of National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The centre is dedicated to packaging pulses and organic products while maintaining high hygiene and quality standards. Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, called the facility a major milestone in promoting the Bharat Organics brand. The initiative aims to empower farmers and expand access to certified organic produce across India, while offering premium prices to farmers and affordable organic food to consumers. Un..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?