DGCA Issues Guidelines For Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) Aircraft

New Delhi: Aviation regulator DGCA issued guidelines for airworthiness certification of electric aircraft such as  electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that are capable of taking off and landing in a vertical manner, on Wednesday, as per reports. 

An advisory circular outlining the baseline airworthiness criteria for the type certification of Vertical Take Off and Landing Capable Aircraft (VCA) has been issued.

These aircraft are powered by an electrical system and are known as eVTOLs.

"This significant step aims to streamline the certification process and ensure the safety and reliability of emerging eVTOL technologies in India," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in a release on Wednesday.

The advisory circular provides comprehensive safety requirements on the design, construction, structural strength, flight performance, equipment, power plant installation, flight crew interface and other information required for type certification of eVTOL aircraft.

The latest move is part of efforts to promote advanced air mobility solutions.

DGCA said the initiative also aligns with global efforts to standardise eVTOL certification and encourages innovative efforts by the Indian industry in developing/ manufacturing eVTOL and its components.

Last week, the regulator issued an advisory circular on vertiports that are to be used for eVTOL aircraft operations. 

What is Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) Aircraft

An electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is a variety aircraft that uses electric power to hover, take off, and land vertically. This technology came about thanks to major advances in electric propulsion and the emerging need for new aerial vehicles for urban air mobility that can enable greener and quieter flights. Electric and hybrid propulsion systems have also the potential to lower the operating costs of aircraft.  

With inputs from PTI