Communication Systems for Autonomous eVTOL: Regulatory Challenges, Emerging Technologies, and Future Directions

Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) systems promise to transform urban mobility by reducing congestion and improving accessibility within the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) framework. Autonomous eVTOL systems, as envisioned in the FAA's INNOVATE 28 initiative, depend on robust Command and Control (C2) communication links to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations. However, current research has not provided a comprehensive analysis of the distinct communication challenges faced by these systems, particularly under the constraints of Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC). Existing studies often focus on conventional UAVs or piloted eVTOLs and do not address the phase-specific and environment-specific requirements of fully autonomous platforms. This survey addresses that gap by critically examining the state of the art in C2 communication for A-eVTOLs, identifying the lack of solutions tailored to different flight phases, such as takeoff, cruising, and landing, under both Line of Sight (LOS) and Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) conditions. It analyzes relevant FAA and FCC regulatory frameworks, evaluates the potential of advanced technologies, including sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, and Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architectures, and assesses infrastructure needs for redundancy, reliability, and real-time performance. By linking current standards and regulatory mandates with emerging communication technologies and AI-driven approaches, this survey provides an integrated technical and policy perspective to guide the development of secure, scalable, and autonomous A-eVTOL communication systems for future urban air mobility ecosystems.