AIR Secures Regulatory Path for Personal eVTOL Certification

The acceptance of these standards, effective July 24, 2026, marks the most significant industry-wide rule update since the original light sport aircraft regulations of the late 1990s. AIR’s internal certification team collaborated directly with the FAA and international aviation authorities to define these performance-based requirements, which replace older, restrictive design limitations.

For the Tel Aviv-based manufacturer, the milestone shifts the focus toward demonstrating compliance for the AIR ONE. The aircraft features a vertical takeoff and landing system, a proprietary 'Fly-By-Intent' control interface, and redundant electric propulsion. With a cruise speed of 115 knots and a 550-pound payload capacity, the vehicle is designed to operate outside the constraints of traditional runway infrastructure. CEO Rani Plaut characterized the move as a turning point, signaling the transition from development to the final certification phases required for customer deliveries.