FAA Approves Flying Car
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Preorders Open for First Ever Flying Car
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially approved the first-ever flying car, known as “Model A,” which is now under experimental status. Alef Aeronautics, the company behind this groundbreaking vehicle, announced that they had received a Special Airworthiness Certification from the FAA, making them the first company to achieve this milestone. This certification has certain limitations on the vehicle’s allowed flight locations and purposes, ensuring safety during the testing phase.
Before taking to the skies, the Model A must also comply with the safety standards set by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. Alef’s CEO, Jim Dukhovny, expressed optimism about meeting these requirements, stating that they are hopeful the certification will be their next step in this process.
Dukhovny emphasized the historical significance of this achievement, noting that while there have been previous pioneers in the field, such as Terrafugia, Paul Moller, and Henry Ford, this is the first time a vehicle resembling a traditional car has been granted permission to fly. Furthermore, Alef’s Model A is the first electric car to receive such authorization, highlighting the company’s innovative approach.
Has the flying car finally arrived?
Alef Aeronautics says its “Model A" flying vehicle now has FAA permission to test run on the road and in the sky — and the company hopes to start delivering vehicles to customers by late 2025.
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Under the Code of Federal Regulations, Alef is obligated to report any issues or defects encountered during the development and testing phases of the Model A to the relevant U.S. government agency. This ensures that any concerns are addressed promptly and appropriately.
Alef is now offering the Model A for preorder on its website, with a price tag of approximately $300,000. This flying car, powered entirely by electricity, can be driven on public roads and has the ability to take off and land vertically. It is classified as a Low-Speed Vehicle, designed to travel at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour on paved surfaces. However, the vehicle’s flight capabilities can be utilized when a faster route is required.
Currently, presales are open, and interested customers can secure a spot on the waiting list by placing a $150 deposit or opt for a priority position by paying $1,500. Alef aims to bring the concept of a flying car to reality, offering a transformative mode of transportation that combines the convenience of a car with the ability to take flight, revolutionizing personal mobility.
