The document, SIR NO. 697DCK-25-R-00445, outlines the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) Participant Selection. Issued on September 9, 2025, this Screening Information Request (SIR) seeks proposals from State, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments partnering with private sector organizations. The program aims to accelerate the safe commercialization and integration of eVTOL and AAM aircraft into the National Airspace System, as mandated by Executive Order 14307, "Unleashing American Drone Dominance." Key objectives include demonstrating broad public benefits, generating data for regulatory frameworks, fostering public-private partnerships, and accelerating commercial operations. Proposals, due by December 11, 2025, must be submitted electronically and detail U.S.-based aircraft and technology, economic and geographic representation, operational plans, policy insights, aircraft readiness, and support. A minimum of five proposals will be selected, leading to Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) with the FAA. Evaluation criteria prioritize U.S.-based technology, economic and geographic impact, operational scope, and policy potential. The program will conclude three years after the first pilot project becomes operational.
The Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Aircraft Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) Participant Selection, SIR No. 697DCK-25-R-00445 Amendment 1, outlines a program established by the Secretary of Transportation and FAA Administrator to accelerate the safe integration of eVTOL and AAM aircraft into the National Airspace System. This initiative, stemming from Executive Order 14307, "Unleashing American Drone Dominance," seeks proposals from State, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments partnering with U.S.-based private sector entities. The program aims to demonstrate the viability of AAM technologies for various applications, including air taxis, cargo, and emergency services, while informing future regulatory frameworks. Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria such as U.S.-based aircraft and technology, economic and geographic representation, operational plans, policy insight potential, aircraft and operational readiness, and support for operations. The FAA intends to select at least five pilot projects, with awards issued as Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs).
The eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) is a federal initiative designed to accelerate the deployment of safe electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) and advanced air mobility (AAM) operations in the United States. Established under Executive Order 14307 and the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, the eIPP facilitates partnerships between State, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments and U.S.-based private sector organizations experienced in eVTOL/AAM development. The program aims to generate data for FAA regulations, foster public-private collaborations, and expedite commercial operations for air taxis, cargo, and logistics. Unlike previous programs, eIPP focuses on piloted or optionally piloted AAM aircraft over 1,320 lbs, seeking type certification, with high air traffic control interaction. Applications are due by December 11, 2025, and selected projects will run for three years. While participants receive no federal funding, partnerships with documented private sector experience are mandatory, and proposed aircraft must have a type certification project. The FAA retains exclusive authority over U.S. airspace, but the eIPP allows testing of novel operational concepts. At least five pilot projects will be selected.
The eIPP program, an unfunded OTA, focuses on integrating eVTOL and AAM aircraft into national airspace, emphasizing public benefit and safety. Proposals must include a U.S.-based private-sector partner with demonstrated experience in eVTOL/AAM development and operations, with aircraft undergoing a Type Certification project. State, local, tribal, or territorial (SLTT) governments are prime offerors, submitting one proposal but can partner on others. Key areas include air taxis, regional air mobility, cargo, logistics, supply, and automation safety. While temporary infrastructure is allowed, all operations must comply with existing Federal Aviation Regulations. Reporting requirements, operational approvals, and the number of flight hours will be negotiated during the OTA process. The FAA will select at least five pilot projects within 180 days of the SIR release, with the program concluding three years after the first project becomes operational, unless extended.