On December 13, 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) introduced a groundbreaking regulation that opens the door for powered-lift aircraft, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, to be integrated into national airspace. This rule is pivotal in paving the way for advanced air mobility (AAM) solutions, which promise to revolutionize the aviation industry, particularly in urban transportation.

The new regulations provide a certification framework for powered-lift pilots and instructors, allowing them to train with a simplified set of flight controls. Previously, training required two sets of controls, one for the student and one for the instructor. This regulatory change not only streamlines the process for pilot training but also supports the commercial use of air taxis and other urban air mobility vehicles.

As the first new category of aircraft in nearly 80 years, powered-lift aircraft are expected to play a crucial role in reshaping aviation, with potential applications in medevac, disaster relief, and regional transport. The FAA's efforts to create a regulatory framework are seen as a major step in ensuring the safety and scalability of these innovative technologies​.

Source:

Global Air (2024). "FAA Advances Powered-Lift Aircraft Regulations: A Key Step for Advanced Air Mobility." Global Air. Retrieved December 15, 2024, from https://www.globalair.com