Air taxis, also known as eVTOLs, are electric aircraft that take off and land vertically, like helicopters, but fly horizontally on fixed wings, much like planes. The Federal Aviation Administration has acknowledge them as a new type of aircraft called “powered-lift.” This is the first time a new aircraft category has been introduced since helicopters were certified in the 1940s.
“The FAA will continue to prioritise the safety of our system as we work to seamlessly integrate innovative technology and operations. This final rule provides the necessary framework to allow powered lift aircraft to safely operate in our airspace.”
“Powered lift aircraft are the first new category of aircraft in nearly 80 years and this historic rule will pave the way for accommodating wide-scale Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) operations in the future,” said Mike Whitaker, FAA’s Administrator.
These vehicles are intended for short distance passenger and cargo transport. Their electric engines are a quieter alternative to helicopters, and developers hope they will ease urban congestion. As a cleaner way to travel, they may also help with emergency medical transport.
How Will The New FAA Rules Change Things?
The FAA recently published regulations to govern air taxis, making this a new height for the industry. These rules discuss pilot training, flight operations, and safety protocols. Air taxis are treated like helicopters in certain parts of their flight, but new methods are being applied to their unique performance characteristics.
The new regulations mean pilots can train using simulators, which streamlines their preparation compared to traditional requirements.
They also allow for single control flight systems during training to reduce the complexity of earlier dual-control setups. Because air taxis are new, there aren’t many experienced instructors. The FAA has decided that pilots involved in test flights for manufacturers can become trainers to help the industry create enough skilled pilots.
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Which Companies Are Leading The Charge?
A few companies have already made progress in developing air taxis. Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, both based in California, are a couple of the most active. Joby secured a limited flight license last year and has attracted major investment, including £385 million from Toyota this month.
Archer Aviation has also drawn attention, with United Airlines pledging to buy 200 aircraft worth around £770 milion. Delta Airlines has invested £46 million in Joby to look into airport transport options. In Europe, Germany’s Volocopter leads the market and is working with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency to develop its services.
While these companies show promise, they weren’t all successful. Lilium, once a rising star in Germany, faced financial trouble after its government denied a critical loan request.
What Are The Environmental Benefits Of Air Taxis?
Air taxis run on electric power for a cleaner alternative to traditional aircraft that use jet fuel. They are particularly suited for use in urban areas, where noise and emissions are an issue. With cities looking for eco-friendly ways to move people and goods, air taxis could be the solution.
Airlines also see them as a way to improve airport access. Instead of battling through heavy city traffic, passengers could take air taxis directly from urban centres to airports, reducing travel time and pollution.
