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Next-gen aviation is changing the national airspace and legislation is now looking to the integration of flying cars, passing a bill known as the Jetson Bill, to ensure all roadable aircraft can easily be registered and licensed in all 50 states.
There are two U.S. companies and two European companies expected to start production on roadable aircraft in 2025. Samson Sky was among three flying car companies that provided input to New Hampshire's House Transportation Committee and helped to bring about the historic Jetson Bill in 2020. The bill named after a futuristic cartoon discusses the very near possibility of integrating roadable aircraft on state roads and highways.
Like with other smaller aircraft, a pilot is unable to take off or land on public roads while in flying mode unless they have declared an emergency. The new legislation specifies that he drivers of roadable aircraft are required to adhere to any rules of the road while driving, just like any other vehicle. The Jetson Bill acted as a precedent for future flying car regulations.RELATED STORIES:Samson Sky begins crowdfunding for Switchblade flying carSamson Sky shares milestones after first flight, launches crowdfunding campaignSamson Sky Switchblade flying car takes first official flight
Samson is working with other states on similar legislation. The company's legislative analyst, Russel Bousfield, confirmed that bills are actively being drafted and are projected to be introduced into committee this year in eight or more populous and forward-looking states.
"We're very excited to provide industry input to State legislators who are laying the foundation for this new form of transportation," Bousfield said. "It's been very rewarding to work with influential lawmakers that share a desire to bring about new technologies and advancements in aerospace."
Samson Sky is producing a flying car, the Switchblade, which performed its maiden flight in November 2023. The flying car has a hybrid-electric system and uses unleaded auto gas rather than leaded aviation fuel. Owners can fuel up at an auto gas station and drive on the roads to the airport, transforming the futuristic vehicle by switching to flying mode and traveling through the air to the next destination. The unique system is not found in any other vehicles on Earth.
Many states are looking to encourage job and industry growth. By adding more high-tech jobs, these states can bring more skilled job jobs into communities.
"Legislation to help simplify the integration of roadable aircraft into the highway system will serve to benefit all flying car manufacturers," Bousfield said. "And I would like to thank those legislative members who have drafted bills, for their contribution to advancing aerospace innovation."