FAA opens the skies for eVTOL aircraft with final 'powered-lift' rule
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rallied the aviation industry by publishing its Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) two months ahead of schedule. The 880 page document defines the operating and pilot training basis for a completely new category of aircraft. In fact, it’s the first new civil aircraft category since helicopters arrived in the 1940s, marking a historic moment for both the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector and the aviation industry.
‘Powered-lift’ is defined as a heavier-than-air aircraft capable of vertical takeoff, vertical landing, and low speed flight that depends principally on engine-driven lift devices or engine thrust for lift during these flight regimes and on nonrotating airfoil(s) for lift during horizontal flight.
FAA Administrator Michael Whittaker addressed leading AAM manufacturers at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, commenting:
“Powered-lift aircraft are the first new category of aircraft in nearly 80 years and this historic rule will pave the way for accommodating wide-scale AAM operations in the future.”
FAA Administrator Michael Whittaker at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, October 2024 (Image credit: Bill Carey/Aviation Week)
Although the SFAR is designed to be flexible and will evolve over time, a key feature is the removal of dual-control training requirements, allowing pilots to train using a single set of flight controls. The initial cadre of instructors will likely come with in-house experience directly from the manufacturers.
The new rule adopts a more flexible performance-based philosophy, highlighting why aviation insurers are approaching AAM aircraft with fresh vision. Where underwriters could historically apply industry-wide standards when covering conventional aeroplanes and helicopters, the increased diversity of aircraft configurations, operations, and technological sophistication within the powered-lift category requires an innovative can-do approach on the insurance desk.
Download the SFAR: Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and Airplanes - Final Rule
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