Sky Taxis Take Off: U. S. Tests New Flying Tech

The U. S. government is diving into the future of flying with a new plan for electric air taxis. This isn't just about cool gadgets; it's about jobs and keeping the country ahead in tech. The Department of Transportation has kicked off a trial program to speed up the use of electric air taxis. These aren't your average planes. They can take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, but they're electric and could be piloted or unmanned. The program will run for three years and include at least five projects. These air taxis could be used for delivering packages, helping in emergencies, or even transporting people. The goal is to test these aircraft before they get the green light for commercial use. This isn't the first time the U. S. has looked into air taxis. In 2023, the FAA approved Joby Aviation's plan to test its electric flying taxi. Now, Joby and other companies like Archer Aviation are jumping on board with this new program. The FAA is calling for proposals and will pick at least five participants. This is a big step towards making air taxis a reality, not just a sci-fi dream.