Joby Buys Blade, China’s 2-Ton eVTOL, FAA Powered-Lift Rules & Drone Rescues

About this episode

Max and David discuss the latest developments in UAV and eVTOL technology, including Joby's acquisition of Blade and new FAA regulations.

Max and David reunite for UAV News Talk episode 434, bringing listeners a wide-ranging discussion on the latest UAV, eVTOL, and rotorcraft developments. FAA Advisory Circular on Powered-Lift They start with the FAA’s release of AC 21-17-4, the long-awaited certification guidance for powered-lift aircraft . Max explains how this 64-page document emphasizes performance-based outcomes rather than prescriptive design rules. Much of the content resides in Appendix A, covering equipment from cockpit voice recorders to flight data recorders. The standout requirement: aircraft must withstand impacts from a four-pound bird—a test historically performed with frozen chickens fired from “chicken guns.” David points out that eVTOLs, operating at lower altitudes, will likely encounter more bird strikes than traditional aircraft, making the requirement especially relevant. Joby Acquires Blade Passenger Business The hosts then dive into Joby Aviation’s $125 million acquisition of Blade’s passenger business . Blade, known for helicopter and charter flights around Manhattan, gives Joby an existing customer base, operational infrastructure, and valuable experience. Max and David consider how…

People in this episode

Host: Max Trescott

Guest: David

Topics covered

• UAV
• eVTOL
• FAA regulations
• drone rescues
• aviation news

Keywords

• Joby Aviation
• Blade
• FAA Advisory Circular
• eVTOL
• drone rescues

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Joby Aviation, Blade, FAA, Sikorsky, Bell

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