The Utah Department of Transportation will lead a federal pilot program to test eVTOL aircraft and other emerging aviation technologies in real-world operations.

The Federal Aviation Administration selected UDOT to lead one of eight projects nationwide for the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Program, a three-year initiative designed to help integrate electric aircraft into the national airspace.

Through the initiative known as uFLY, Utah will lead a partnership with Oregon, Idaho, Arizona and Oklahoma, along with more than 30 industry partners and research institutions, to test new aviation technologies and gather data. Industry partners include BETA Technologies, Ampaire, Joby Aviation, Lockheed Martin, Future Flight Global, Alpine Air, Jump Aero and 47G.

Testing will take place across a range of operating environments throughout the western US, including urban areas, rural corridors, mountainous terrain and wildfire-prone regions.

UDOT Aeronautics operates mobile command centers equipped with workstations and satellite connectivity that allow crews to connect aircraft systems, monitor live video and flight data, and coordinate testing operations from the field. The portable units can be deployed statewide and will support data collection and testing.

“Utah has built a national reputation as a home to innovation,” said Utah Governor Spencer Cox. “This partnership puts Utah at the forefront of the next generation of aviation technology while creating new opportunities for economic growth, research and workforce development across our state.”

“With our strong aerospace sector, innovative research institutions and diverse landscape for real-world testing, Utah and our regional partners can help advance these technologies safely and effectively,” said Senate President Stuart Adams.

Source: Utah Department of Transportation