FAA Launches First Public eVTOL Test Flights in Texas Under New Pilot Program

The US Federal Aviation Administration has launched a new pilot program to test electric, hybrid-electric, and autonomous aircraft, with the first event kicking off in Texas. The program, called the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), selected eight state-led projects earlier this year to conduct public trials of the emerging technology. Three eVTOL companies — Joby, Beta, and Wisk — are participating in the Texas leg of the program. Over the course of a week, the companies will carry out test flights simulating potential future air routes. Notably, the tests are proceeding even before the regulatory framework governing such aircraft has been formally finalized.