New FAA program will let eVTOL startups test some operations before full certification | TechCrunch

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has Announce A new pilot program will allow power vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) startups to do some operations before they get full regulatory certification.

This is a possible big change for these companies, as they have been working on limited test flights on the planes over the past few years while trying to get FAA approval. But the program has its limitations.

The company will have to work with state, local, tribal or territorial governments to apply for the program. The FAA said it will approve at least five projects that can operate for three years, covering short-distance taxis, long-distance fixed wing flights, cargo hauling, logistics and supply for emergency or medical purposes and “adding automation safety.”

The FAA is looking for applicants who can achieve successful results by working with a range of entities, which will accelerate these programs to align with the high safety standards that the public expects from the aviation industry”. Official request for paperwork.

“Once successful, these projects can provide a wealth of data and lessons learned to inform the broader regulatory framework to support and oversee AAM [advanced air mobility] the agency wrote.

So far, on Friday, Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation announced their plans to apply for a pilot program. Neither company has said the government entity they plan to apply for, although Archer notes that it will work with existing partners (and investors) United Airlines. Applications should expire on December 11, 2025 and pilots may begin in 2026.