FAA Initiates Air Taxi Pilot Program to Expedite eVTOL Deployment
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) unveiled a new Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Program on September 12, 2025. This initiative is designed to hasten the deployment of air taxis across the United States.
The program will establish a minimum of five projects through public-private partnerships with state and local governments. The aim is to promote the safe usage of eVTOL aircraft. “The next great technological revolution in aviation is here,” stated U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. “The United States will lead the way, and doing so will cement America’s status as a global leader in transportation innovation.”
Major industry players, Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, have announced their participation in this three-year program. The initiative will allow these companies to commence operations in select markets ahead of full FAA certification. This strategy addresses regulatory hurdles that have previously impeded air taxi deployment.
Projects will concentrate on the following areas:
- Short-range air taxis
- Longer-range fixed-wing flights
- Cargo and logistics missions
- Emergency management
- Medical transport
- Offshore energy services
Applications are due by December 11, 2025, with pilot operations potentially starting as early as 2026. Both Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation saw their stock prices increase following this announcement.
Source: UPI News