Federal regulatory update creates first new class of aircraft in 80 years, sets the stage for future of passenger and cargo transport

Agency publishes guidelines for pilot training and operations of powered-lift aircraft, including electric and hydrogen powered air taxis.

Joby Aviation said that with the final rule, the FAA “lays the groundwork necessary for Joby to launch commercial passenger service in the U.S., once the company has received type certification of

Firms such as Joby and Archer are betting their battery-powered air taxis, also known as electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, will revolutionize the aviation landscape by cutting down on commute times in congested urban areas. However, both are still waiting for the FAA to certify their vehicles.

For the first time in decades, the Federal Aviation Administration recognized a new category of aircraft, an electric vehicle that can take off and land vertically.

The regulator’s specifications for air taxi operation allayed startups’ fears that its newly minted aircraft category created wouldn’t jibe with their designs.

The agency outlines how pilots will train to fly air taxis. 'Now we’re positioned to usher in the first brand-new type of commercial operation in decades,' the FAA says.

Move over, helicopters. Make room for ‘powered-lift’ vehicles. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is clearing the way for air taxis and similar vehicles to begin operating in earnest around the country.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued the final rule for air taxis and other electric-powered aircraft Tuesday, calling the regulations the “final piece in the puzzle” to introducing these aircraft types.