WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., – AIR, an OEM for midsize eVTOLs, has announced that its latest U.S.-based eVTOL prototype has successfully received FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification, a key step in the company’s mission to bring electric aviation to everyday life.
This certification accelerates AIR’s flight testing at its facility near West Palm Beach, Florida, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion to the U.S.
On the heels of the recent U.S. government’s Executive Order promoting eVTOL production, the certificate and flight testing in Florida represent an important phase for the company as it expands its flight program within U.S. airspace.
The Florida facility will play a central role in AIR’s ongoing testing, validating performance, safety, and real-world operability, while also enabling critical demonstrations for its U.S.-based stakeholders. This further positions AIR as a pivotal player in shaping electric Piloted Aircraft as well as Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations both in the U.S. and globally.
This move aligns with AIR’s broader goals of advancing its eVTOL platform for cargo and personal mobility solutions, while also supporting its efforts to meet U.S. regulatory milestones and accelerate commercial deployment.
AIR’s all-electric eVTOL aircraft serves as a multi-domain platform allowing multiple use cases while relying on a shared DNA. The eVTOL platform enables both a piloted two-seater for personal use as well as an uncrewed version designed for commercial cargo and contested logistics.
With a flight time of up to one hour per charge, a 550-pound payload capacity, and a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), AIR’s aircraft can operate from any flat surface, offering a versatile and efficient solution for both personal and commercial needs.
Rani Plaut, CEO and co-founder of AIR, said, “The Experimental Airworthiness Certification is more than just regulatory approval; it’s a green light to advance our mission and expand our U.S. footprint. All of us at AIR are so proud to be part of an industry that is making sustainable, electric flight a reality. As we continue to advance our eVTOL technology, we’re thrilled to help reshape air mobility and deliver solutions that will drive the future of personal and commercial transportation all over the world.”
The recent FAA MOSAIC ruling, which updates the light sport aircraft (LSA) certification qualifications to also include eVTOL-type aircraft, further solidifies AIR’s position in the market. With its ability to meet these new rigorous standards, AIR is poised to be the first eVTOL aircraft to receive LSA certification. The company will leverage the newly approved prototype for comprehensive flight testing, collecting valuable data that will support its ongoing LSA certification process.
Matthew Smith, Director of Airworthiness and Certification at AIR, said, “Working closely with the FAA has been instrumental in ensuring that AIR’s eVTOL aircraft meet the highest safety and regulatory standards. This collaboration is key to safely integrating electric aviation into the airspace. Together with the FAA, we are accelerating the path toward the widespread adoption of AAM solutions, paving the way for the future of transformative air mobility.”
This milestone builds on AIR’s recent achievements, including its $23 million Series A funding round, successful full-scale flight demonstrations across all mission phases, and extensive nighttime BVLOS uncrewed cargo operations.
Now, with a U.S.-based operations center supporting FAA certification efforts and ongoing collaboration with the U.S. Air Force’s Agility Prime program, AIR is set to deliver 15 uncrewed cargo eVTOLs in the coming year. With a proven track record in real-world cargo delivery operations, AIR’s uncrewed cargo platform is among the most advanced eVTOL aircraft in production. The company will also start fulfilling over 2,500 pre-orders for its piloted AIR ONE, reinforcing its role in shaping the future of Advanced Air Mobility worldwide.