The U.S. Senate advanced legislation from U.S. Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) to facilitate collaboration between federal agencies and civil aviation industry leaders over advanced air mobility policies.
The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Coordination and Leadership Act would require the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary to lead a working group made up of members from multiple government agencies to engage with the civil aviation industry in reviewing policies and programs that advance AAM aircraft operations. Additionally, the group would work on creating recommendations on safety, security, and federal investments needed to develop AAM further.
“American aviation is entering a new era of innovation and growth, and industry leaders should have a seat at the table as the federal government creates programs to advance the development of this technology and sets safety and operation standards,” Moran said. “Passing this legislation in the Senate puts it one step closer to being signed into law and will help Kansas aviation leaders have a role in developing policies designed to shape this new chapter in aviation.”
The legislation is supported by the Helicopter Association International (HAI), Vertical Flight Society (VFS), Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Airports Council International – North America, Wichita State University and Spirit AeroSystems.
“Arizona leads the nation in aerospace innovation, and our bipartisan legislation creates jobs that strengthen our national security and technological development,” Sinema said. “I’m proud to see our bill pass the U.S. Senate and move one step closer to becoming law.”
The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Coordination and Leadership Act will now be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.