Introduction of the Powered-Lift Aircraft Category by the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken a pivotal step by introducing a new aircraft category termed ‘powered-lift’. This announcement, made by FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker at the 2024 NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas on October 22, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of air taxis and related technologies. The creation of this category is instrumental in setting the standards for the qualifications and training required for instructors and pilots of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The designation of powered-lift aircraft under this new category includes not only air taxis but also cargo delivery vehicles and operations in both urban and rural settings. This is the first time since the introduction of helicopters in the 1940s that a completely new category of civil aircraft has been established. The FAA emphasizes that this move is crucial for the near-term safe introduction of these innovative aircraft into the airspace.
Regulatory Developments and Industry Implications
The ‘final rule’ for powered-lift aircraft, according to the FAA, represents the last ‘piece of the puzzle’ for the safe integration of these modern aircraft types. Administrator Whitaker highlighted that the rule aims to integrate these technologies seamlessly while maintaining the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system. This rule introduces a framework that allows for the unique operational capabilities of powered-lift vehicles, which can take off and land vertically and transition to forward flight during cruise.
This comprehensive regulation modifies several existing rules and introduces a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to facilitate the certification and training of pilots and instructors. It adapts helicopter operating requirements to certain phases of flight and employs a performance-based approach to some operational rules. Importantly, it also simplifies training by allowing powered-lift pilots to use a single set of flight controls, a significant departure from traditional requirements that necessitate separate controls for the student and instructor.
Response from Leading eVTOL Developers
Following the announcement, major eVTOL developers such as Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation publicly expressed their support for the FAA’s new regulation. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, commended the FAA for its leadership role in promoting clean flight technologies and for delivering the regulations ahead of the anticipated December 2024 deadline. He remarked that the proactive efforts of the rulemaking team were crucial in achieving this early success.
Archer Aviation also praised the FAA for its proactive approach and continued partnership. They noted that the new regulation lays a foundational framework that is essential for the operational planning and commercialization of urban air mobility (UAM) in the United States. Archer Aviation is now aligning its operational plans with the final rule to further lead in the commercialization of UAM.