# USDOT Launches eVTOL Pilot Program in North Carolina

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), led by Secretary Sean P. Duffy, launched a federal pilot program in September 2026 to test electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and advanced air mobility technologies in North Carolina. This initiative, part of the Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), involves collaboration with industry prime contractors Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies to conduct real-world testing aimed at developing regulatory frameworks, creating jobs, and enhancing regional connectivity. Key testing locations include Raleigh Executive Jetport, Pitt-Greenville, and Dare County Regional Airport, with missions supporting medical and disaster response operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supports the program to ensure safe integration of these new aircraft into national airspace.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the USDOT's commitment to advancing eVTOL technologies through federally supported pilot programs, signaling growing opportunities in advanced air mobility sectors.
- The involvement of prime contractors Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies highlights key industry players to watch for subcontracting and partnership opportunities.
- Agencies and contractors operating in North Carolina should evaluate how this pilot program may influence future regulatory requirements and infrastructure investments related to eVTOL and advanced air mobility.
- This program underscores the federal government's focus on innovation in transportation procurement, with potential expansion to other regions and applications beyond North Carolina.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Transportation
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)

### Vendors
- Joby Aviation (prime contractor)
- BETA Technologies (prime contractor)

### Key Quotes
> Under President Trump, we are unlocking the future of flight, one test flight at a time.
> — Sean P. Duffy, U.S. Transportation Secretary

> Over the past week, our aircraft flew more than 16 medical and disaster response missions between Raleigh Executive Jetport, Pitt-Greenville and Dare County Regional Airport.
> — Kyle Clark, Founder & CEO, BETA Technologies

> Integrating these new aircraft into our airspace is an exciting step, and these demonstrations in North Carolina help ensure we do it safely.
> — Bryan Bedford, FAA Administrator

### Sources
- [Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Celebrates Launch of Federal eVTOL Pilot Program in North Carolina to Unlock Future of Flight | US Department of Transportation](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/trumps-transportation-secretary-sean-p-duffy-celebrates-launch-federal-evtol-pilot-0) - DOT
- [Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Celebrates Launch of Federal eVTOL Pilot Program in North Carolina to Unlock Future of Flight | Federal Aviation Administration](https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/trumps-transportation-secretary-sean-p-duffy-celebrates-launch-federal-evtol-pilot-0) - FAA