The future of eVTOLs and flying cars could have more to do with the Air Force than you might have imagined. The FAA is going to partner with the U.S. Air Force to help support the safe integration of Advanced Air Mobility aircraft into the National Airspace System.
This collaboration was formalized in a pact sealed on October 25 at Duke Field, Florida. Both entities will pool resources, exchange vital data, and leverage each other's expertise to test the burgeoning technologies.
Alright, let’s face it, it’s not uncommon for the military to get involved when there is advanced technology to be had. It’s not always a bad thing either.
“A new era of aviation is taking off and safe and efficient operations require collaboration,” said FAA Technology Development Director John Maffei. “This data will help inform FAA certification efforts, policies, standards, and future airspace integration requirements.”
The FAA signed the agreement with AFWERX, a technology directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory.
“With this MOU and the ongoing AAM Interagency Working Group, we are accelerating a breakthrough in electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft,” said Col. Elliott Leigh, AFWERX director and chief commercialization officer for the Department of the Air Force. “We are driving progress in propulsion technology, in manufacturing and materials, and in test and safety for a novel class of air vehicles.”
Back in July, the FAA disclosed a comprehensive plan, shedding light on the actions required by various stakeholders to roll out advanced air mobility operations in the immediate future.
How does this translate for the average person? Initially, it might not seem like much. However, as production accelerates and technological knowledge is exchanged, we might witness a surge in eVTOL and flying cars being adapted for military use. Big players like Joby could also incorporate insights from the Air Force. It's a two-way street of innovation. But let’s forget about streets and roads, because where we are going, there are no roads.
For a deep dive into this stuff, check out the Advanced Air Mobility portal