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" category.
This change will initially utilize a "special class" process under current regulations, with long-term plans to develop specific powered-lift rules for operations and pilot training.
The FAA asserts this adjustment will not cause delays to the type certification process for eVTOL developers and aims to provide a simpler, more appropriate pathway for these novel aircraft designs.

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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.