The FAA rules that flying air taxis have moved closer to takeoff in the US

Federal regulators have given electric vehicles a strong push Air taxi Tuesday issued final rules governing the aircraft and how pilots will be trained to fly them.

Head of the Federal Aviation Administration, Mike Whittakersaid rules Air taxis are recognized as an entirely new type of aircraft that will soon join airplanes and helicopters in the skies.

These planes Take off and land vertically like a helicopter, but fly like a fixed-wing plane. Many companies Work is underway to bring them to market, but a lack of clarity on regulations governing their use has held them back.

Dr. Whittaker FAA The emphasis is on safety as it works to fold the new aircraft into the country's airspace. “Powered-lift aircraft” are the first new category of aircraft in nearly 80 years since the introduction of helicopters, he said, and the rule will allow their widespread operation.

Air taxi advocates call them a cleaner alternative to passenger planes that burn jet fuel. So far, however, current technology limits their size and this likely means that they will often be used in urban areas. The company imagines carrying people and cargo.

One company in the new field, California-based Job Aviation, praised the FAA regulations. CEO Joe Ben Bevert said the rules “will ensure that the United States continues to play a global leadership role in the development and adoption of clean flight.”

Airlines see air taxis as a way to get passengers to and from the airport. Delta Air Lines says it will in 2022 Invest $60 million Joby, and this month Toyota made an announcement $500 million investment. United Airlines is supporting Archer Aviation, another California-based company Order for 200 aircraft That Archer said is worth $1 billion with an option for $500 million more.