WSJ Tech News Briefing How Amazon’s Data Hubs Are Transforming Small-Town America
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Nov 4, 2025 Dan Neil, an automotive columnist for The Wall Street Journal, shares his exhilarating experience test-flying an ultralight eVTOL, highlighting its unique design and the thrill of flying. Meanwhile, reporter David Uberti dives into the economic transformation in Umatilla, Oregon, driven by Amazon's data centers. He discusses the area's shift from agriculture to tech jobs, the infrastructure challenges, and community reactions to this rapid growth. The potential sustainability of this boom raises intriguing questions about the future of small-town economies.
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Stay Below The Ultralight Weight Limit
- Keep eVTOLs under the 254-pound ultralight threshold to avoid stricter FAA rules.
- Focus innovation on lighter batteries and efficient motors to extend flight time safely.
Tech Versus Regulation For eVTOLs
- eVTOL flight time is currently limited but could improve significantly with better batteries and motors.
- Regulatory limits and weight classes, not just tech, shape how practical these vehicles become.
Safety And Regulatory Pressure For eVTOLs
- eVTOLs are sensitive to weather, can't fly at night, and risk overcrowding uncontrolled airspace.
- The FAA will step in with rules if public incidents or pressure increase, so manufacturers must avoid high-profile mishaps.