USA Launches Pilot Program to Accelerate Air Taxi Integration
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced the launch of a new pilot program aimed at accelerating the integration of air taxis into the country's transportation system.
According to Reuters, local companies are still working to overcome regulatory barriers in developing advanced air mobility solutions.
The initiative will involve at least five public-private partnership projects, bringing together regional and local authorities with private companies. The main goal is to ensure the safe operation of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL).
Companies developing air taxis are racing to secure certifications and enter the market to meet growing demand for faster and more environmentally friendly urban transportation. eVTOL aircraft, capable of vertical takeoff and landing, are seen as ideal for short urban trips or transport to and from airports, helping avoid road congestion.
FAA Administrator Brian Bedford said the agency will learn from these pilot projects to support the safe and scalable deployment of these technologies nationwide.
The program was initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump through an executive order in June.
Other countries such as India, China, and the United Arab Emirates are also working to fast-track the adoption of eVTOL technologies.
