26 flights mark Florida's latest electric aircraft trial

Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies completed 26 test flights over a three day period in Florida on October 23. The demonstrations were organized by the Florida Department of Transportation to evaluate electric aircraft in the state's airspace. The routes mirrored a historic 1914 airboat trip between St. Petersburg and Tampa.

Gov. Ron DeSantis stated that Florida is integrating this technology into its transportation network. He described the aircraft as the closest current equivalent to flying cars. The state is participating in the Federal Aviation Administration's eVTOL Integration Pilot Program. This program involves eight projects across 26 states to test safe operations in national airspace.

Joby Aviation flew its S4 model from St. Petersburg to Tampa International Airport on Friday morning. The S4 is an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed for a pilot and four passengers. It uses six tilting propellers and has a top speed of approximately 200 mph. BETA Technologies flew its ALIA CX300, which operates like a conventional plane with fixed wings.

Bonny Simi, President of Operations at Joby, noted that the 23 mile drive across the Howard Frankland Bridge can take nearly an hour during rush hour. She said a flight between the cities could take about 10 minutes. Simi added that the company is working with officials to develop the infrastructure and procedures needed for commercial service.

Chris Caputo, Head of Flight Operations at BETA, reported that the 26 flights consumed 1,892 kilowatt hours of electricity. He estimated the total cost of that power at about $300. Two pilots conducted the flights without a ground crew. Caputo said the data collected will help move the technology from demonstration to safe commercial operations.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said Florida's support for the technology stands out. He noted that these aircraft could reconnect small towns to national transportation systems. He said the program aims to provide more convenient and affordable regional transportation options.

Jared Perdue, Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation, said the state is preparing for new forms of transport to address congestion. Florida has expanded the SunTrax facility in Polk County to include two vertiports. The site now features charging infrastructure and hangar space for companies to assemble and test aircraft.

Officials have not announced when passengers can book flights or the expected cost of a trip. DeSantis said the demonstration is an early step toward building a network of electric aircraft routes across the state. He predicted that the public will see more of these flights in the coming weeks and months.