We asked the DOT who would oversee a flying car like Tesla's Roadster. The answer isn't readily clear.
Updated on: October 16, 2026 / 8:05 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Elon Musk unveiled the Tesla Roadster Rocket, a 'flying car' with air tanks, intended for 2028 production.
- Technical and regulatory hurdles have prevented the flying car sector from advancing.
- Tesla's website notes the flying model is not approved for public road use.
- Regulatory oversight from the Department of Transportation is unclear.
- The NHTSA typically regulates vehicles but delegates safety certification to automakers, stating compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards is required.
- The FAA stated the Tesla vehicle does not meet their definition of an aircraft.