AIR Expands eVTOL Flight Operations in Florida After FAA Certification
AIR, a leading OEM for midsize eVTOLs, has received FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification for its latest US-based prototype, marking a major step in the company’s efforts to bring electric aviation closer to everyday use.
The certification allows AIR to accelerate flight testing at its new facility near West Palm Beach, Florida, strengthening its U.S. operations and advancing its regulatory pathway. The site will be central to validating performance, safety, and real-world operability, while also hosting demonstrations for U.S. stakeholders.
This milestone follows the U.S. government’s recent Executive Order promoting eVTOL production and aligns with AIR’s strategy to expand its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions for both personal transport and cargo operations. The company’s all-electric aircraft features 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), with the ability to operate from virtually any flat surface.
“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,” said Rani Plaut, CEO and co-founder of AIR. “We’re proud to help reshape air mobility and deliver sustainable electric flight solutions for personal and commercial use worldwide.”
The announcement comes as the FAA’s MOSAIC ruling broadens Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) certification to include eVTOL-type aircraft, positioning AIR to become one of the first manufacturers to secure LSA certification. The company is also working with the U.S. Air Force’s Agility Prime program and preparing to deliver 15 uncrewed cargo eVTOLs in the coming year, while fulfilling over 2,500 pre-orders for its piloted AIR ONE model.
With $23 million in Series A funding, successful full-scale flight demonstrations, and proven BVLOS nighttime cargo operations, AIR continues to solidify its role as a pioneer in Advanced Air Mobility and a driver of the next era of sustainable aviation.
