Honda Pursues FAA Approval for Hybrid-Electric eVTOL Research Flights
Honda has taken a significant leap in advanced air mobility by applying to the US Federal Aviation Administration for a regulatory exemption. This exemption will allow the automotive giant to conduct research flights with an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, known as “F1”.
The request was filed by the California-based Honda Research Institute and made public by the FAA on December 29, 2025. The exemption sought is from fuel reserve requirements for rotorcraft operating under visual flight rules. Honda justifies this exemption by stating that the total flight time for the F1 research aircraft falls short of standard VFR requirements.
Although the FAA notice does not directly associate the F1 aircraft with Honda’s passenger air taxi program, the company has consistently expressed that its future passenger eVTOL will incorporate technologies derived from its Formula 1 hybrid power units. This hybrid-electric approach distinguishes Honda from many competitors who are pursuing all-electric designs. Honda is targeting a range of approximately 216 nautical miles (400 kilometers), which significantly expands potential routes beyond typical urban air taxi operations.
The anticipated Honda’s passenger eVTOL is expected to feature eight vertical lift propellers and two pusher propellers, accommodating one pilot and four passengers. The company is aiming for commercialization around 2030 and has reportedly completed over 400 test flights of subscale prototypes at its San Luis Obispo, California facility.
Source: Flight Global