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 certification, shifting from Part 23 (light aircraft) to the "powered-lift" category.
This new "special class" certification process utilizes existing regulations (FAR 21.17(b)) and Part 23 airworthiness standards, aiming to provide a simpler and more suitable pathway for eVTOLs' unique characteristics.
The FAA assures that this change will not delay the type certification process for major eVTOL developers like Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, who still anticipate aircraft entering service in 2024.

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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.