The world’s first flying car is one step closer to reality after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved it for Special Airworthiness Certification, allowing the company to begin testing flights this month.
Alef Aeronautics “Model A” flying car is fully electric and drivable on the streets and in the air, with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. The FAA’s clearance marked the first time a vehicle like this has received legal approval from the US Government.
Source:
Small, J. (2023, July 3). The FAA approves the first flying car for take off. Entrepreneur. https://www.entrepreneur.com/green-entrepreneur/the-faa-approves-the-first-flying-car-for-take-off/455224
Analysis:
Getting anything approved by the FAA is nearly impossible, so the authorization of test flights for a flying car is big news. Airspace is heavily regulated for the safety of everyone involved. A flying car could change not just the way we interact with aviation, but the way we see it too. Flying is a big ordeal nowadays and a flying car could change that. It could be as simple as grabbing the keys, hopping in the family flight-mobile and then taking off soaring through the city scape. Flying cars seem to be heavily inspired by Hollywood and other popular media outlets that have influence over our imaginations. It isn’t always realistic, but it keeps us dreaming about a different future.
