Electric Air Taxis Coming to New York and 24 US States as Government Approves Eight Pilot Projects

The US Department of Transportation announced on March 9, 2026, the selection of eight proposals under the Advanced Air Mobility and Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Programme, marking a significant step toward launching electric air taxi services in multiple states and cities across the country. The initiative, first outlined in an executive order by President Donald Trump last year, aims to accelerate the safe integration of these next-generation aircraft into the national airspace system through real-world trials.

The chosen projects span more than two dozen states and involve partnerships between state and local governments, aviation authorities, and leading eVTOL companies such as Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, BETA Technologies, and Electra. aero. A prominent example is the collaboration between the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and these firms, which will explore various operational concepts, including passenger air taxi services at the Manhattan heliport. Other selected proposals come from the Texas, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina Departments of Transportation, among others.

The pilot programme, set to run for three years, allows companies to test their aircraft in practical settings before full Federal Aviation Administration certification. It will focus on demonstrating viability, helping cities plan vertiports and supporting infrastructure, and building public familiarity with the technology. In select cases, cargo operations may generate revenue during trials, while BETA Technologies, involved in seven of the eight projects, will emphasise critical cargo and medical transport missions to enhance connectivity for communities.

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Industry leaders welcomed the announcement as a strong signal of federal commitment. Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein described it as the clearest indication yet from the White House, FAA, and DOT that bringing air taxis to market is a priority. Joby Aviation and Archer saw positive stock movements in postmarket trading, with Joby shares rising as much as 8.4% and Archer gaining 2.2%. BETA's founder Kyle Clark highlighted the programme's potential to enable missions that improve access across the US, while Electra. aero CEO Marc Allen stressed the urgency, noting companies have been asked to prepare for operations within 90 days.

FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau stated that these partnerships will provide valuable insights into safely and efficiently incorporating eVTOL aircraft into the airspace. The trials are expected to inform future regulations for the emerging urban air mobility sector, addressing challenges such as noise, safety, air traffic management, and infrastructure needs.

The development comes as startups like Joby and Archer advance toward commercial certification, with electric air taxis promising faster, quieter, and more sustainable urban transport compared to traditional helicopters. If successful, the pilot projects could pave the way for widespread deployment of electric air taxis in the coming years, transforming short-distance travel in congested metropolitan areas and beyond.

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