With the introduction of the Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization (AAIM) Act this week, U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) hope to provide federal aid for state, local and Tribal communities readying to integrate advanced air mobility technologies.
Advanced air mobility is a system to move people and cargo between places previously underserved or unserved by the aviation industry. Through new technologies, such as electric vertical take-off and landing capable aircraft, the senators see this as a potential game-changer for many areas of the country. Under the legislation, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation would be required to create a pilot program to offer affiliated grants to those in need.
“As next-generation propulsion aircraft are poised to revolutionize how people and cargo move within and between cities, suburban, and rural areas, advanced air mobility technologies have the potential to transform how we link historically underserved communities,” Padilla said. “That’s why I’m excited to introduce this legislation to help states and localities keep pace with this growing sector.”
This view has been echoed by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the Helicopter Association International (HAI), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), and the National League of Cities (NLC), all of whom offered support for the bill.
“American aviation is entering a new era of innovation and growth, and we need to make sure we have the right tools and infrastructure in place to keep pace with these developments,” Moran said. “Equipping cities with the resources to plan for and utilize this next generation of aircraft will help integrate advanced air mobility operations into existing and future transportation networks.”
Current expectations would see the bill up for review by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation later this week.