FAA ‘Modifying’ Approach to eVTOL Certification

In a move that the FAA says will not “add delay” to completing type certification, the agency says it is “modifying its regulatory approach” to certificating electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

Thom Patterson

Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at 08:15 AM ET

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The FAA’s change comes as three major U.S. eVTOL developers, including Joby Aviation, are well along in their type certification processes. [Courtesy: Joby Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA is modifying its regulatory approach for eVTOL aircraft, shifting their certification from Part 23 (light aircraft) to the existing "powered-lift aircraft" category.
This change involves using a "special class" process under FAR 21.17(b) for short-term certification, applying performance-based airworthiness standards, with long-term plans to develop specific powered-lift regulations for operations and pilot training.
The FAA asserts this adjustment will not delay current type certification timelines for eVTOL developers, aiming instead to provide a simpler and more efficient pathway for integrating these novel aircraft into the national airspace.

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The FAA says it is “modifying its regulatory approach” to certificating electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a move that the agency says will not add delays to completing type certification.

Until now, major U.S. eVTOL developers such as Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY), Beta Technologies, and Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) have been moving toward type certification under Part 23 regulations for light aircraft.