North Carolina Takes Flight with Innovative Electric Air Taxis
In a pioneering move, North Carolina is setting the stage for the future of aviation with the launch of its first electric air taxi flights. Governor Josh Stein, alongside the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), celebrated this milestone at the eLIFT-NC Showcase. This event marked the beginning of North Carolina’s journey in integrating electric air taxis into its transportation network, promising advancements in rural health care access and disaster response.
The initiative, part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Advanced Air Mobility and Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), is designed to connect airports and hospitals across the state. Governor Stein expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “North Carolina is first in flight; we are the future of flight, and as today’s announcement shows, we are still gaining speed and altitude.” The eLIFT-NC program aims to bolster health care access and enhance the quality of care, reinforcing North Carolina’s aviation legacy.
During the showcase, attendees had the opportunity to explore the aircraft, participate in flight simulators, and witness live demonstrations by Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies. Governor Stein and Secretary Daniel Johnson even took a ride in one of the aircraft, experiencing the future of transportation firsthand.
“Rooted in our legacy as the First in Flight state, North Carolina is committed to shaping the future of aviation,” remarked Secretary Johnson. The eLIFT-NC program is exploring new technologies that enhance access and strengthen connections to rural communities, creating innovative ways to transport people and goods across North Carolina.
The first flights under the eLIFT-NC program were conducted this month, with Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies leading the charge. These electric flights, remotely piloted between the Triangle and the Outer Banks, signify a significant step forward. This phase of the program will focus on establishing flight routes, expanding airport pairs, building safety cases, and engaging communities to gather data for future operations.
With over 400 aerospace companies, North Carolina’s aviation industry significantly contributes to the state’s economy, generating $88 billion annually. Recently, Governor Stein attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the U.S. Navy’s Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) in Kinston, highlighting the state’s ongoing commitment to aviation. This facility, dedicated to maintaining and repairing military aircraft, is anticipated to bring over 400 jobs and a $140 million economic impact to eastern North Carolina.
In a related development, JetZero announced plans for a $4.7 billion investment in North Carolina to establish a manufacturing hub for a commercial all-wing jet. This project is expected to create over 14,500 high-wage aerospace jobs, marking the largest economic development initiative in the state’s history.
Governor Stein is also focused on expanding job opportunities in high-demand sectors like aviation through apprenticeship models. Initiatives like Guilford Technical Community College’s new Aviation Center and Lenoir Community College’s Senator Jim Perry Aviation Center for Excellence are equipping students with essential industry skills and certifications.
Recognizing the importance of rural development, Governor Stein has committed to enhancing infrastructure and job opportunities across all 100 counties in North Carolina. In 2025 alone, over $12.5 billion was invested, creating nearly 5,000 jobs in rural areas. Health care affordability and access, particularly in rural regions, remain a top priority, with several programs underway to improve digital infrastructure and expand EMS services.
To view footage of the inaugural eLIFT-NC flights, visit NCDOT’s YouTube channel.
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