In November 2023, Joby Aviation conducted a test flight of its electric air taxi in New York City, marking a significant milestone in the emerging industry of air mobility. Recently, on October 22, federal regulators announced new rules governing the operation of electric air taxis, along with procedures for training operators, aiming to accelerate the development of this innovative mode of transportation.

Mike Whitaker, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), emphasized that this regulation recognizes air taxis as a new category of aircraft that will soon be flying alongside traditional airplanes and helicopters. These aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically like helicopters, while flying like fixed-wing airplanes.

Despite many companies striving to bring electric air taxis to market, progress has been stymied by a lack of clear regulations governing their use. Whitaker pointed out that the FAA is dedicated to incorporating this new type of aircraft into national airspace, prioritizing safety as the foremost concern. He noted that powered-lift aircraft represent the first new category of aircraft since the introduction of helicopters nearly 80 years ago, and the new rules will facilitate their broader operation.

Proponents of air taxis highlight their potential for cleaner transportation, especially since jet fuel contributes to air pollution and carbon emissions. However, current technology only allows for the production of small air taxis, which are best suited for urban applications. Developers are focusing on both passenger transit and cargo transport.

Joby Aviation, headquartered in California, is one of the key players in this field, and it has expressed appreciation for the FAA’s new regulations. CEO JoeBen Bevirt stated that these rules “will ensure that the United States continues to lead globally in the development and application of clean aviation.”

Long-haul airlines are also looking at air taxis as a means to transport passengers to airports. In 2022, Delta Air Lines announced a $60 million investment in Joby Aviation, while Toyota recently revealed a $500 million investment in the company.

United Airlines, on the other hand, is backing another California-based firm, Archer Aviation, and has placed an order for 200 electric air taxis from them. Archer Aviation indicated that this order could be valued at up to $1 billion, with an option for an additional $500 million.