Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced on Dec. 17 the nation’s first Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) National Strategy, presenting a comprehensive plan to accelerate aircraft innovation and its incorporation in everyday American life.
Duffy said this strategy will “revolutionize” air travel and ensure America remains the global leader in aviation. Some ideas proposed in this plan include short-range air taxis and vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has solicited applications—due Friday—for grants and project participation under this strategy, with winners to be announced in the spring.
Several officials spoke alongside Duffy, including FAA Associate Administrator for Airports and the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Daniel Edwards, U.S. Chief Technology Officer Michael Kratsios, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr, FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau, Rep. Tracey Mann (R-Kan.), and several aviation industry experts, at a Dec. 17 press conference in Washington.
“We led in the past. We are going to lead for the next 100 years,” Duffy said.
Duffy noted the significance of the fact that the announcement was being made on the 122nd anniversary of the Wright brothers’ first flight.
“The strategy actually accentuates and accelerates innovation, enhances regulatory clarity, and the United States’ position around the world. You know, that first flight 122 years ago today succeeded because of American ingenuity and innovation and collaboration. It’s that same formula today,” FAA Deputy Administrator Rocheleau said.
Duffy and the other officials described several aspects of the AAM National Strategy, including the use of autonomous aircraft for public services, cargo delivery, and private or recreational transportation.
The AAM strategy also aims to improve rural and urban transportation while bringing advancements to the military and medical fields, including emergency response.
It outlines 40 recommendations to bring its vision to reality.
Some of the most important requirements for advanced air mobility are upgrading infrastructure, passing clear regulations, and building a skilled support system and workforce, Duffy said.
There are several more recommendations for building an effective AAM system, presented in the form of “six key pillars,” including guidance on airspace, infrastructure, security, workforce, automation, and community planning and engagement.
“It’s been about 80 years since we as an industry, regulators introduced a new aircraft type: [the] helicopter. AAM represents, to me, that next leap,” Duffy said.
The strategy is estimated to take up to 10 years for full implementation.
