AIR Takes a Major Step Forward in eVTOL Operations with FAA Approval in Florida

AIR Expands eVTOL Flight Operations in Florida

On September 3, 2025, AIR, a leading Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specializing in midsize electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, announced a groundbreaking achievement: the receipt of the FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification for its new eVTOL prototype. This certification is pivotal for the company as it embarks on extensive flight testing operations at its facility located near West Palm Beach, Florida.

The attainment of this certification aligns perfectly with recent government initiatives, notably the Executive Order from the United States government aimed at fostering the production of eVTOL aircraft. With these collaborative efforts, AIR is poised to enhance its flight programs across U.S. airspace.

The Role of Florida in eVTOL Development

AIR's Florida facility will serve as a critical hub for ongoing performance evaluations and safety validations of its aircraft. This strategic location also allows AIR to conduct essential demonstrations for their U.S.-based stakeholders, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of electric aviation innovations. As electric Piloted Aircraft and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) gain traction, AIR is keen on positioning itself as an essential contributor to this evolving sector.

The company's eVTOL platform is designed for diverse applications, accommodating both personal and commercial use. It features a piloted two-seater for recreational purposes as well as an uncrewed variant tailored to cargo delivery and complex logistics tasks. With a remarkable flight endurance of up to one hour on a single charge, a payload capacity of 550 pounds, and the capability to reach speeds of 155 mph, AIR's aircraft stand out as versatile and practical solutions for contemporary mobility needs.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

According to AIR's CEO, Rani Plaut, “The Experimental Airworthiness Certification is not just a regulatory approval; it represents a vital step that advances our mission and strengthens our US presence.” He enthusiastically expressed pride in working towards making sustainable and electric flight a commonplace reality. The successful implementation of this technology has potential implications for the future of personal and commercial transportation globally.

Moreover, the recent FAA MOSAIC ruling, which broadens light sport aircraft (LSA) certification qualifications to include eVTOL-type vehicles, enhances AIR's competitive edge. Through adherence to these new stringent qualifications, AIR is expected to become a trailblazer in acquiring LSA certification for eVTOL aircraft, underscoring the company's commitment to excellence and innovation in aviation.

Collaboration with Regulatory Authorities

Matthew Smith, AIR's Director of Airworthiness and Certification, emphasized the importance of working closely with the FAA to ensure that AIR's eVTOL aircraft meet high safety and regulatory standards. This partnership is vital for the safe incorporation of electric aviation into the national airspace.

AIR’s recent achievements include a robust $23 million in Series A funding, successful full-scale flight demonstrations, and nighttime Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) uncrewed cargo operations. The company is now on track to deliver 15 uncrewed cargo eVTOLs within the year, while also fulfilling more than 2,500 pre-orders for the piloted AIR ONE model. All these accomplishments reinforce AIR's significant role in shaping the landscape of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) worldwide.

Conclusion

AIR stands as a remarkable example of innovation and dedication in the aviation sector. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, AIR seeks to redefine not only how air transportation functions but also how it can be made sustainable and efficient. With the recent FAA certification under its belt, the company is set to groundbreak in electric aviation, taking steps toward broadening its operations in the U.S. and setting global standards in the eVTOL industry. To learn more about AIR and its products, visit AIR's official website.