This Alia conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) electric aircraft, the first rolled off Beta Technologies’ rate production line, flew into airports across the U.S. in 2025. [Credit: Beta Technologies]
Key Takeaways:
The FAA has established a regulatory framework (SFAR) and launched the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) for early, real-world testing and potential revenue operations of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with widespread integration anticipated in "2026".
"2025" marked a highly active year for eVTOL flight testing, with leading manufacturers like Beta, Joby, Archer, and Wisk achieving significant milestones, including piloted transitions, long-distance flights, and initial autonomous operations.
Looking ahead to "2026", manufacturers are nearing Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) testing for certification and will leverage the eIPP for expanded, data-rich operations, supported by robust U.S. government strategies to accelerate advanced air mobility.
The FAA in October 2024 published a special federal aviation regulation (SFAR) with seismic implications for the aviation industry—a framework for the early integration of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
As 2026 begins, these new entrants, capable of both vertical lift and wingborne flight, may be months or even weeks away from flying in a city near you.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
