This week, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) highlighted its commitment to integrating emerging technology into the state’s transportation network by convening the Advanced Air Mobility Advisory Committee. This committee, composed of key industry partners and stakeholders from both public and private sectors, gathered to discuss the integration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Florida. AAM involves using electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for transporting passengers and cargo in urban and rural areas.
Jared W. Perdue, P.E., Secretary of FDOT, stated, “With Florida as a national leader in transportation, FDOT is proud to bring together the various partners who seek to have Advanced Air Mobility become an integral part of our transportation network.” He emphasized that Florida is a prime market for this technology and related business opportunities.
The department collaborated with the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority to host meetings and tabletop exercises at Tampa International Airport. These sessions involved local government officials, stakeholders, and community leaders discussing AAM operations, infrastructure needs, and planning strategies for communities.
Brett Fay, Vice President of General Aviation for the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority and an Advisory Committee Member, remarked on AAM’s potential impact: “Advanced Air Mobility is a concept that has the potential to completely transform the transportation landscape throughout Florida.”
The ongoing collaboration aims to determine how AAM can benefit communities across Florida. The previous iteration of this committee produced an Implementation and Public Outreach Plan last fall. The upcoming release of the AAM Land Use and Site Approval Guidebook will aid local planners in making informed decisions regarding AAM.
Industry experts predict commercial eVTOL flights within a few years. These aircraft could operate at existing airports or standalone facilities known as vertiports.
For more information on Advanced Air Mobility, visit FDOT.gov/aviation/advanced-air-mobility.
FDOT’s mission focuses on providing safe transportation systems that enhance economic prosperity while preserving environmental quality. For more about FDOT’s initiatives, visit FDOT.gov.
