FAA Proposes Regulations To Ease eVTOL Certification

Agency considers temporary certification as a step toward integration of new aircraft category.

Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at 05:45 PM ET

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Archer Aviation recently unveiled its Midnight eVTOL aircraft, for which it plans to have FAA certification in 2024. [Courtesy: Archer Aircraft]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA has released a draft notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to update the definition of "air carriers" to include powered-lift aircraft (like eVTOLs) for commercial operations.
This regulatory update aims to establish a foundational framework for eVTOLs to enter service, addressing a key obstacle by easing certification and integration into the National Airspace System.
Additionally, the FAA is proposing a temporary Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for "Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations" to allow eVTOL operations to commence while permanent regulations are developed.

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As eVTOL companies develop their aircraft with the declared goal of achieving FAA certification within the next two years or so, the agency appears to be clearing the path somewhat.

The regulator released a draft notice of proposed rulemaking, or NPRM, that would update the definition of air carriers to include powered-lift aircraft under the regulations covering commercial operations including airlines, charters, and air tours.