Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida marked a milestone on Friday, celebrating the inaugural demonstrations of so-called flying cars under a fresh federal initiative. He expressed confidence that Florida is poised to lead a transportation revolution, enabling cities to be interconnected through electric aircraft.
In a post on his official X account, DeSantis highlighted the flights over Tampa Bay, noting that the demonstration retraced a historic route first launched in 1914.
He also praised the low noise levels and user-friendly controls of these aircraft in another post.
"In 1914, thousands gathered by Tampa Bay to witness Tony Jannus make history with the world's first commercial airline flight," the governor reminisced.
DeSantis explained that over a century later, Florida once again celebrated a pivotal aviation moment at the same location, this time with electric aircraft capable of vertical takeoffs and landings.
"Today, in that same spot, we celebrate the first 'flying car' flights in Florida," stated the governor, referring to the demonstrations conducted under the new Advanced Air Mobility federal program.
Advancing Electric Aviation
The governor emphasized that the event featured various types of electric aircraft and is part of the Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program, spearheaded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
"I am proud of Florida's leadership role in this national program and the years of preparation that have brought us to this point," he declared.
DeSantis noted that his administration has invested in infrastructure, supported innovation-friendly policies, and worked diligently to introduce new transportation modes in the state.
"We've made infrastructure investments, approved policies that favor innovation, and worked hard to usher in a new era of transportation here in the Sunshine State," he wrote.
The governor reiterated Florida's historical role in technological advancements, suggesting that these demonstrations affirm the state's capacity to remain at the forefront of aviation innovation.
Pioneering Companies and Technologies
The flights featured Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies, two companies developing electric aircraft for both passenger and cargo transport.
Joby showcased its eVTOL model, known for vertical takeoffs and landings, while BETA participated with conventionally landing electric aircraft.
Both technologies aim to reduce reliance on traditional propulsion systems and expand regional transportation options.
In a follow-up post, DeSantis particularly noted the enhanced quietness compared to conventional aircraft.
"It was fascinating to watch the landings at Tampa International Airport, but also to note how much quieter they are compared to traditional aircraft," he remarked.
The governor added that he found the controls intuitive and shared a family experience during a tech demonstration.
His son Mason, eight years old, used a simulator at SunTrax to virtually navigate from Tampa International Airport to the vicinity of Raymond James Stadium.
"He landed roughly but safely," DeSantis shared about the simulation exercise, which did not involve an actual flight.
Renewing Historic Routes
According to an official statement from the Florida Governor's Office, two of the participating aircraft took off from Albert Whitted Airport in St. Petersburg, flew over Tampa Bay, and landed at Signature Aviation facilities at Tampa International Airport.
The journey symbolically retraced the route inaugurated on January 1, 1914, by Tony Jannus, who transported former St. Petersburg Mayor Abe Pheil in what is recognized as the world's first regular commercial passenger air service.
In those days, the flight offered a novel way to cross the bay. Now, authorities hope electric aircraft can provide new regional connections and ease reliance on congested roadways.
Florida's Secretary of Transportation, Jared Perdue, stated that developing this technology could transform how people and goods move across the state.
Perdue mentioned that Florida is working on an air corridor network to connect airports and future specialized facilities known as vertiports.
The project, titled the Florida Aerial Highways Network, aims to use electric aircraft to establish city connections, although its commercial development still hinges on federal authorizations, infrastructure, and further testing.
In April 2026, DeSantis enacted law HB 1093 to advance vertiport construction and ease their funding, allowing the state Department of Transportation to expand its involvement in related projects.
The legislation took effect on July 1, opening new collaboration opportunities between authorities and private companies interested in developing advanced air mobility services.
Additionally, Florida is working on SunTrax Air, a testing center near Interstate 4 that will evaluate electric aircraft, safety procedures, and specialized infrastructure.
The FAA and the U.S. Department of Transportation also endorsed Friday's demonstrations, confirming Florida as the seventh jurisdiction to begin testing within the federal program.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford explained that the flights will help gather data to establish safety standards and procedures for the future integration of these aircraft into U.S. airspace.
The assessments include noise levels, airport coordination, flight routes, and facility operations that will eventually enable passenger transport.
As part of the demonstration series, Joby Aviation plans to continue its flights at Orlando International Airport and the Kennedy Space Center.
However, electric air taxis are not yet available as a commercial service for Florida residents.
Joby is progressing in obtaining certification for its aircraft from federal authorities, and no fares or definitive dates have been announced for commencing passenger transport.
This is not the first time the state has experimented with air taxis. In November 2023, the company Volocopter demonstrated an electric aircraft at Tampa International Airport, years before the current federal integration tests began.
Frequently Asked Questions about Florida's Flying Cars
What is the Advanced Air Mobility federal program?
The Advanced Air Mobility federal program is an initiative by the FAA to explore the integration of electric aircraft into U.S. airspace, focusing on developing new transportation modes and reducing reliance on traditional propulsion systems.
Which companies are involved in the flying cars demonstrations in Florida?
Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies are the main companies involved in the demonstrations, showcasing their electric aircraft designed for both passenger and cargo transport.
How does Florida plan to integrate electric aircraft into its transportation system?
Florida is working on developing an air corridor network to connect airports and future vertiports, aiming to integrate electric aircraft as part of its transportation system, pending federal approvals and further testing.
When will electric air taxis be available to Florida residents?
Electric air taxis are not yet commercially available. Joby Aviation is working on certification for their aircraft, and no specific dates or pricing have been announced for starting passenger services.