Padilla, Moran Introduce Legislation to Prepare Communities for Advanced Air Mobility Technologies
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced bipartisan legislation to help communities prepare for the eventual integration of advanced air mobility technologies. The Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization (AAIM) Act would establish a pilot program to help state, local, and Tribal governments prepare for anticipated advanced air mobility operations and ensure communities can take advantage of the potential benefits of the safe integration of these technologies in our nation’s airspace.
Advanced air mobility consists of a system to move people and cargo between places previously not served, or underserved, by aviation. The new technologies allow for new methods of air travel, including electric vertical take-off and landing of aircraft. The bill is expected to be considered by the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation this week.
“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,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “That’s why I’m excited to introduce this legislation to help states and localities keep pace with this growing sector. And I look forward to seeing this legislation move forward in the Senate Commerce Committee.”
“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,” said Senator Moran. “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.”
“We must deploy advanced air mobility in our cities in ways that benefit climate goals, spur improved public transit and safety, while expanding regional economic opportunity for marginalized communities,” said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo. “The success or failure of these emerging technologies will hinge upon meaningful cooperation at the local level, and I applaud Senator Padilla’s efforts to secure much-needed resources for pilot demonstrations and planning.”
“To tackle the future of surface transportation, we have to be innovative and think big,” said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia. “That’s why we’re excited to support Senator Padilla’s legislation to expand infrastructure for advanced air mobility (AAM). This $25 million investment will help spur innovation in air transportation technology and is essential to ensure we are at the cutting edge of our economy.”
“As a long time pilot and Councilmember, I am well aware of the advances in technology that will bring a revolution in electric air mobility options, and the Sacramento region is perfectly poised to advance this nascent industry,” said Sacramento City Councilmember Jeff Harris. “We have the best weather, airports, hangar space and a utility provider that is active in promoting charging infrastructure to support AAM vertiports. This bill will enable us to support and encourage EVTOL, help us achieve our climate goals, and lighten the burden on road infrastructure.”
The AAIM Act is supported 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).
Full text of the bill can be found here.
###