Electric-powered Vertical Takeoff and Landing aircraft (EVTOL), sometimes referred to as air taxis, may soon be seen hovering around the bayou.
That is because the federal Aviation Administration has selected the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to help test and evaluate emerging aviation technologies, including EVTOL vehicles and other emerging aviation systems.
DoTD says the program, called LIFTOff Louisiana, will be based at the Houma-Terebonne Airport.
According to DoTD, the purpose of the program is to make sure the technology gets introduced to the public in a way that is safe and beneficial.
"This announcement is yet another example of Louisiana continuing to set the standard. As aviation and technology are continuing to adapt, we want Louisiana to be the leader in innovation," said Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry.
"This program gives Louisiana an opportunity to be at the forefront of aviation innovation while keeping safety as our top priority," said Glenn Ledet, DoTD Secretary. "Our participation will improve mobility, support economic development, and benefit communities across our state."
The pilot program will have state and local governments partnering with private companies looking to demonstrate real-world uses, from passenger transportation to cargo delivery to first responder support.
There is no federal funding specifically for the program. Costs must be covered by the program's participants, with the FAA providing guidance, oversight, and coordination.