New 'Flying Cars' to Launch Across US This Summer

Pilot program will allow eVTOLs and ultralight aircraft to operate before full FAA certification.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The U.S. Department of Transportation announced a new three-year pilot program that will allow various types of 'flying cars' and other new aircraft designs to begin operating in American airspace as early as June 2026, even before they receive full certification from the Federal Aviation Administration. The program will take place across eight regions, including New York, Texas, Florida, and New Mexico, and will feature quieter, more efficient, and potentially autonomous vehicles that can take off and land with minimal space.

Why it matters

This pilot program represents a major step forward in the development and adoption of new aviation technologies that could dramatically change how people and goods move around the country. If successful, these 'flying cars' could reduce traffic, emissions, and travel times, while also opening up new economic opportunities. However, the safety and regulation of these unproven vehicles remains a key concern.

The details

The new aircraft designs involved in the pilot program include electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles as well as ultra-short takeoff and landing aircraft. These vehicles are touted as being quieter, more environmentally-friendly, and requiring less space to operate than traditional helicopters or airplanes. Some models even promise fully autonomous flight capabilities. The goal is to allow these new aircraft to start ferrying passengers and cargo around the country, even before they receive full certification from the FAA.

  • The pilot program will run for three years, starting as early as June 2026.

The players

U.S. Department of Transportation

The federal agency that oversees transportation policy and infrastructure in the United States, including aviation regulations.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The federal agency responsible for regulating and overseeing all aspects of civil aviation in the United States, including certifying new aircraft designs.

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What’s next

The FAA will closely monitor the pilot program to assess the safety and feasibility of these new aircraft designs before potentially granting them full certification to operate nationwide.

The takeaway

This pilot program represents a significant milestone in the development of urban air mobility and 'flying car' technologies, which could transform transportation in the coming decades if proven safe and practical. However, significant regulatory hurdles and public acceptance challenges remain before these new aircraft become a common sight in American skies.