The US Transportation Department has unveiled a Federal Aviation Administration pilot programme to accelerate deployment of advanced air mobility vehicles, reported Asianet Newsable News of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.

The Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) will form public-private partnerships with state and local governments and private firms to develop safety frameworks and regulations for electric air taxis and related technologies.

The initiative follows President Donald Trump's executive order to bolster US defences against hostile drones and promote innovations such as supersonic aircraft and electric air taxis.

Joby Aviation announced its intention to join the White House-backed eIPP. Archer Aviation also confirmed its interest, calling it the first federal effort aimed at accelerating real-world electric air taxi operations.

Archer said it is exploring collaboration with US airlines, including United Airlines, and cities to trial its Midnight aircraft under the programme. Shares of Archer rose 1 per cent, with retail sentiment shifting to 'neutral' from 'bearish', according to Stocktwits.

Joby said the eIPP will allow mature aircraft designs to demonstrate use cases such as passenger transport, cargo delivery and emergency response before receiving type certification. Its shares rose 2 per cent, with sentiment remaining 'bullish'.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the pilot programme will help advance the Administration's plan for safe, scalable advanced air mobility operations across the country. Lessons from the trials will inform future national deployment.