U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy on Wednesday announced a new initiative, the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) National Strategy, designed to accelerate American aviation innovation over the next decade.
An accompanying action plan provides 40 recommendations that will support the AAM operations. Additionally, the strategy will help advance President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda and solidify America’s spot as a global leaders in next-generation aviation, the Department of Transportation said,.
“Advanced air mobility vehicles will benefit the American people – transforming how the flying public travels, how first responders jump into action and communities access healthcare, how businesses deliver goods, and how we defend our nation,” Duffy said.
AAM is an aerospace sector focused on safely and efficiently integrating automated aircraft into U.S. airspace. The department said it is a range of innovations, particularly new aircraft types that operate below 5,000 feet, that can transport people and packages more efficiently. AAM requires a modern supports system, including a skilled workforce, upgraded infrastructure and clear regulatory frameworks.
The strategy is organized around six key pillars: airspace, infrastructure, security, community planning and engagement, workforce and automation. The action plan supporting AAM is designed to implement the strategy recommendations to support the safe, secure and coordinated introduction of AAM, the DOT said.
Congress passed the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act in 2022, recognizing the whole-of-government approach to advance AAM in the U.S. The act directed the DOT to establish an Interagency Working Group to coordinate federal efforts related to AAM adoption and deployment and to develop the AAM strategy and plan.
The strategy and plan are supported by many branches of the government and a wide variety of industry organizations.
Kevin M. Burke, president & CEO of Airports Council International–North America, said, “Whether carrying passengers or cargo, eVTOLs and other highly automated aircraft will reshape how people and goods move around America. Airports are eager to engage with the Administration to identify the infrastructure needed to ensure safe and efficient AAM operations, as well as the funding mechanisms to support them. We look forward to playing a central role in advancing the nation’s AAM strategy.”