Florida announces plans for air taxi testing by 2026

Florida is set to begin testing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, commonly referred to as "flying cars," at its SunTrax Air facility in Auburndale by the end of 2026. This project, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis, is part of a broader expansion of the state's transportation technology research center and aims to accelerate the arrival of air taxis in major cities like Miami and Orlando.

The SunTrax Air facility is designed to support the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), a category encompassing eVTOL aircraft. The state describes the facility as hosting the first air testing runway in the United States specifically dedicated to AAM. Companies will have a controlled environment to evaluate aircraft and communication technologies under real-world conditions. The complex will also include hangars for research, light manufacturing, and final assembly, facilitating the development of these aircraft before they are integrated into larger-scale operations.

Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue highlighted that Advanced Air Mobility can offer expanded transportation alternatives as the state's population grows. This initiative builds on previous efforts, such as a 2025 agreement between the Miami-Dade Aviation Department and Wisk Aero to prepare for air taxi integration at Miami International Airport. The recent announcement suggests this technology could eventually be applied in other cities like Orlando and Tampa.

Furthermore, Florida has been selected to participate in the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). This program focuses on advancing safety policies and operational procedures for integrating eVTOL and AAM technologies. The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is involved in research related to Florida's participation in this national initiative. The integration of aerial technology complements SunTrax's existing ground transportation research activities on its 775-acre campus.

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Advanced air mobility can expand transportation alternatives in the face of population growth and the state's mobility needs.