U.S. Senate Introduces Aviation Modernization Act To Support Advanced Air Mobility

Yesterday, US Senators Alex Padilla (D-California), and Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) introduced bipartisan legislation for the Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization (AAIM) Act, to help communities prepare and pave the way for the eventual integration of advanced air mobility (AAM) technologies.

Following that, the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) applauded the U.S. senate for their efforts in making this a reality, but more importantly, the potential for job creation and forward economic momentum

The AAM has the potential to revolutionize the way people and cargo move within and between communities, complementary to existing transportation networks, and creating an expansive future for aviation. The aircraft proposed for use would employ emissions-free electric propulsion, and preferably significantly quieter than traditional aircraft. Separately, advancements in design and development appears to be on track for such aircraft to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) within the next few years. MR. Ed Bolen, President and CEO of NBAA stated that “we are leaning into the infrastructure and operational requirements to enable AAM to be a safe, successful, and inclusive mode of transportation that positions general aviation and our aerospace workforce for the future.”

This legislation began in the house of representatives in December 2021 where HR6270 was directed to the Secretary of Transportation to establish a pilot program to provide grants related to AAM infrastructure and other purposes, and outlined the establishment of the pilot program no more than 180 days following the enactment of the AAIM Act. HR6270 called for diversity in grant distribution in terms of geography; improve safety, connectivity, access and equity in rural and urban areas; reduce surface congestion and environmental impacts; grow the economy and create jobs; encourage community engagement when planning AAM infrastructure.

FMI: https://congress.com, https://nbaa.org