FAA Draft Standards Unify Infrastructure for Next-Gen Vertical Aircraft
The FAA released draft design standards for vertiports and vertical flight facilities on October 22, 2026, aiming to create a single framework for all VTOL aircraft types as the advanced air mobility industry prepares for commercial operations.
The Federal Aviation Administration has released draft design standards for vertical flight infrastructure. The proposal, issued on October 22, 2026, aims to replace the agency's existing heliport advisory circular and its 2024 vertiport engineering brief. This initial proposal seeks industry feedback to support safe takeoffs and landings for the next generation of aircraft.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated that these aircraft have tremendous potential to generate new jobs, connect communities, and strengthen American leadership in aviation. The draft guidance is part of broader efforts to build infrastructure for advanced air mobility operations. It is intended to help airport operators, developers, and infrastructure providers plan for emerging technologies.
Scope and Design Framework
The draft combines earlier FAA design standards for heliports and vertiports into a single framework. It covers facilities supporting all vertical takeoff and landing aircraft types. This includes helicopters, powered-lift aircraft, and other VTOL vehicles.
The standards address five core areas. These are core layout and operating space, lighting and markings and visual aids, power and charging systems, airport integration, and rooftop or elevated structure design guidelines. The document, designated AC 150/5390-4, Vertical Flight Aircraft Infrastructure Design, provides a consistent planning framework.
Key Infrastructure Requirements
The draft specifies requirements for landing areas, lighting, power systems, and integration with existing airports. Developers must design facilities for both conventional rotorcraft and electric VTOL aircraft under a single design basis. The guidance includes infrastructure to support electric and conventional aircraft.
It covers landing and safety areas. It also addresses visual guidance systems to support safe approaches and landings. Guidelines for adding vertical flight facilities at existing airports are included. Design considerations for elevated landing areas and suitable building structures are also part of the proposal.
Inclusion of fueling and electric charging for fleets affects site costing, footprint, and operating economics. Early designs risk rework if they diverge from the final standards. The draft aligns with the Unleashing Drone Dominance Executive Order.
Industry Engagement and Timeline
The FAA is seeking public and industry feedback through January 2027. Final standards are expected in summer 2027. The agency will hold a virtual Industry Day on November 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Eastern time.
The FAA is accepting public comments through January 11, 2027. The agency will work with industry partners and seek public feedback before publishing final design standards. Operational insights from the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program will inform and refine future standards. The program's operational findings are the main input for interim standard changes.
The feedback period will run with industry and the public after the draft release. The FAA will incorporate feedback from the Industry Day event and public comments before finalizing standards in summer 2027.
