How many passengers are air taxis limited to without special permission?

Air taxis are typically limited to carrying a maximum of nine passengers without needing special permission. This limit is based on regulations that classify the operations of air taxis under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines. The nine-passenger limit is significant as it distinguishes air taxis from larger commercial air operators, which must adhere to different regulatory and certification requirements.

When air taxis operate within this limit, they can benefit from simplified operational protocols, making it easier for them to provide services in urban air mobility and regional transportation. Exceeding this number would require the operator to meet more stringent regulations, including potentially needing a different type of air carrier certificate to operate safely and legally, which serves to ensure passenger safety and compliance with aviation standards.