North Carolina has begun demonstration flights under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program. The state is the fifth location to launch testing under the initiative, which evaluates how emerging aviation technologies can operate within the national airspace.
The program supports real-world testing of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), autonomous aircraft, and drone technology. Data gathered from the demonstrations will help the Federal Aviation Administration develop regulations to support safe, expanded use of these technologies.
In North Carolina, Joby Aviation, BETA Technologies, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation are collaborating to test regional flight and medical transport capabilities. The demonstrations explore connections between smaller airports and a major transportation hub, with potential applications for improving regional access and supporting essential services.
Joby’s remotely piloted J208 completed a flight from Dare County Regional Airport to Raleigh-Durham International Airport. BETA’s electric ALIA aircraft also completed multiple test flights between Raleigh Executive Jetport, Pitt-Greenville Airport, and Dare County Regional Airport.
These flights provide an opportunity to evaluate remotely piloted and electric aircraft in practical operating environments. Lessons from the pilot projects will inform future policy and help establish how advanced aircraft can support transportation and medical needs while meeting aviation safety requirements.
Soaring to new heights, together.
Be sure to visit the BWU Technology Partnerships Initiative website to learn more about how our NEOFIX program drives economic growth, promotes policy and infrastructure to improve drone safety and efficiency in various industries, and ensures that drone technology is being used responsibly.