The Federal Aviation Administration announced Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, that the Utah Department of Transportation and Ampaire Inc. completed a hybrid-electric demonstration flight along the I-15 corridor to test future cargo services. The flight, which traveled between Salt Lake City International Airport and Cedar City Regional Airport, follows an earlier flight test conducted on June 25, 2026.
National Integration Efforts
The flight serves as a major milestone in the U.S. Department of Transportation's efforts to safely integrate Advanced Air Mobility aircraft into the National Airspace System. This effort is being conducted under the FAA's eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), a first-of-its-kind initiative established following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump.
Testing Cargo Capabilities
The demonstration utilized an Ampaire hybrid-electric EEL aircraft to assess the viability of using such technology for future cargo operations. By flying the corridor between Salt Lake City and Cedar City, the program aims to gather real-world operational data that can help identify regulatory, operational, and infrastructure requirements for the deployment of next-generation aircraft.
The uFLY Initiative
The Utah Department of Transportation managed the demonstration through its uFLY initiative. This program brings together government, industry, and research organizations to test emerging aviation technologies and collect data to prepare the state's transportation infrastructure for future demands.
Regional Economic Impact
UDOT Commissioner Carlos Braceras said the demonstration shows the future of transportation is already taking flight. He noted that through the uFLY initiative, Utah is collaborating with industry and research partners to collect data so the FAA can evaluate technologies that may strengthen regional connectivity, expand economic opportunities, and improve mobility for communities across the state and the nation.
FAA Operational Goals
FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau expressed enthusiasm for supporting the Utah Department of Transportation and Ampaire under the eIPP. Rocheleau stated that the demonstration provides valuable operational experience and helps the agency understand how to safely integrate Advanced Air Mobility into the existing National Airspace System.
Program Background
The eIPP was launched to create one of the largest real-world testing environments for next-generation aircraft, with the potential to create jobs and strengthen American leadership in aviation. In March 2026, the Department of Transportation selected eight projects across 26 states to participate in the program, with Utah being one of the eight participants.
Future Flight Plans
The FAA intends to use the data gathered from these flight demonstrations to identify gaps in existing procedures and develop approaches for integrating advanced air mobility operations. Following the recent successful test, the Utah Department of Transportation and other eIPP participants are planning additional test flights throughout the remainder of the year.
