A new regulatory milestone 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken another important step toward making air mobility a reality by proposing comprehensive regulations for pilot training and certification. "These proposed rules of the sky will safely usher in this new era of aviation and provide the industry with the certainty it needs to grow," said David Boulter, Acting Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety. The proposed new regulations for the aircraft concerned (eVTOL) are designed to reassure pilots and the industry about the requirements and expectations for operating these aircraft once they have been finalized. 

Primo trainers 

A clear path is proposed for pilots to obtain specific qualifications for each type of aircraft they fly. Pilots working for eVTOL manufacturers could form the first group of flight instructors, who could then train instructors in flight schools, training centers and air carriers.

A proposal in line with ICAO rules

In the same vein, to speed up pilot certification safely, other eligibility criteria would enable some pilots to meet flight experience requirements more quickly. This would apply to pilots who already hold a commercial pilot certificate and are qualified for instrument flight. Finally, eVTOL would follow the same operating rules as traditional aircraft used for private and commercial flights and sightseeing tours. The proposal would comply with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization, enabling American pilots to operate in other countries. The proposed rule will be subject to public and/or individual comment for 60 days from publication in the Federal Register. The proposed regulations closely follow another stage of integration. Last month, the FAA published an updated proposal to modify airspace and procedures to accommodate future air cabs.