FAA to Undergo Audit of Air Taxi Certification Process

An audit aimed at examining the FAA’s certification process for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis is expected to begin by the end of this month, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General.

Thom Patterson

Thursday, March 10, 2022 at 11:25 AM ET

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The Department of Transportation Inspector General’s Office is about to examine the FAA’s certification process for electric air taxis. [Courtesy: EASA]

Key Takeaways:

The USDOT Inspector General will initiate an audit this month to assess the FAA's progress in certifying eVTOL air taxis, focusing on ensuring the safety of novel features and providing clear guidance to applicants.
The audit, initially requested in August 2020, experienced a 19-month delay during which the eVTOL industry saw significant advancements and funding.
A key challenge for the FAA is adapting existing aviation regulations, primarily intended for traditional piloted aircraft, to the unique designs and potential autonomy of eVTOL technology.
The audit aims to address the "new and complex safety challenges" posed by eVTOLs, with an expected completion next year to help refine future certification processes.

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The USDOT IG audit intends “to determine FAA’s progress in establishing the bases for certification of [urban air mobility] aircraft, including ensuring the safety of novel features and providing guidance to applicants,” the office said in a memo released Monday.

FAA to Undergo Audit of Air Taxi Certification Process

An audit aimed at examining the FAA’s certification process for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis is expected to begin by the end of this month, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General.

Key Takeaways:

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