To The Skies

New ‘flying car law’ goes ahead allowing vehicles to use roads and highways – and two states are already interested

One flying car automaker raved about the legislation

A NEW legislation that will allow flying vehicles to use roads and highways has moved forward in another US state.

Minnesota is following in the footsteps of New Hampshire after Governor Tim Walz signed a groundbreaking bipartisan transportation bill.

A new legislation regarding flying vehicles has passed in Minnesota Credit: Getty

Samson Sky’s Switchblade has been 14 years in the making Credit: Jam Press/Samson Sky

The new law outlines the requirements for state registration of cars capable of flying.

The legislation allows “roadable aircraft” vehicles to be used on state roads and highways, where your typical non-aerial cars are driven.

However, takeoff and landing on public roads are prohibited unless there is an emergency.

This development represents a significant advancement for the burgeoning flying car industry, including companies like Samson Sky, whose Switchblade Flying Sports Car exemplifies the innovation in this field.

Samson Sky’s legislative analyst, Russell Bousfield, played a key role in advising Minnesota’s Senate Transportation and Public Safety Committee.

Bousfield expressed satisfaction with the legislative support and noted the growing interest in using roadable aircraft for business and travel within the state.

Samson Sky plans to advocate for similar laws nationwide.

Minnesota follows New Hampshire, which pioneered state registration for roadable aircraft with its Jetson Bill in 2020.

Alongside Samson Sky, industry input was provided by flying car companies Terrafugia and PAL-V.

The market is expected to expand significantly, with US companies Samson Sky and Alef and European companies PAL-V and Klein anticipating production starts in 2025.

Samson Sky’s Switchblade has been 14 years in the making and has been exclusively built and tested in Oregon.

The Switchblade offers an organic transition between driving and flying, with its wings that fold into the car’s body and retractable tail.

Key aspects of the Switchblade include two-passenger seating, 190 mph flight speed, and Skybird hybrid electric drive system for Flying Cars.

The vehicle has room to store smaller travel bags and can reach a flying altitude of 13,000 feet.

The engine powers the wheels on the ground and the propeller in the air.

The aerial vehicle successfully completed its maiden flight in November 2023 and features a hybrid electric system that uses unleaded auto gas, making it practical for everyday use.

This innovative vehicle, which has received reservations from over 50 countries, offers high performance in both driving and flying modes.

Bousfield previously said he expects the Switchblade to cost somewhere in the ballpark of $170,000 after entering the market.

Israel Salas-Rodriguez, Senior Breaking News Reporter