FAA Prepares US For Flying Taxi Operations By 2028

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) published the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Implementation Plan, establishing a framework for nationwide flying taxi operations by 2028.

According to the FAA, the Implementation Plan applies only to those involved in cargo or passenger operations with a pilot onboard. The agency regards AAM as a transportation system that uses electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to transport people and goods by air from one point to another, both in controlled and uncontrolled airspace.

FAA said "Innovate28" is a joint government and industry initiative allowing AAM operations "at one or more key site locations" by 2028. Those locations have yet to be determined.

"This plan shows how all the pieces will come together, allowing the industry to scale with safety as the north star," Deputy FAA Administrator Katie Thomson said in a statement. 

The FAA has introduced a plan that aims to make flying taxi operations more efficient. The plan outlines ways to use existing procedures and infrastructure to ensure that flying taxis become a regular and predictable mode of transportation. It also discusses how aircraft and pilots will be certified, pilot training will be ensured, airspace access will be managed, infrastructure will be developed, and security will be maintained.

The upcoming eVTOL aircraft are set to provide various abilities ranging from short-range transportation for multiple passengers to recreational flying to cargo transportation.

The FAA notes that each eVTOL will be operated by a "pilot in command" in Class B and C airspace. This means constant contact with air traffic control while complying with Visual Flight Rules and visual meteorological conditions.