The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has partnered with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to explore the potential impact of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) on airport operations at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Under this partnership, researchers from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will conduct a systematic evaluation of the impacts that vehicles such as air taxis and autonomous air delivery aircraft will have on the airspace at MCO.
The project will use advanced simulation modelling to consider how the efficiency of safety and air traffic flow can be enhanced when AAM aircraft are integrated into existing airport operations.
Dr. Victor Fraticelli Rivera and Dr. Robert Thomas, assistant professors of Aeronautical Science, in a joint statement, said:Through this research, Embry-Riddle and GOAA aim to stay at the forefront of aviation innovation and to provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders regarding the future of aerial transportation.
This collaboration follows a 2023 announcement that MCO will act as an AAM test site for the State of Florida.
Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of GOAA said:Our partnership with Embry-Riddle symbolizes a commitment to solidify Florida as the leader in this emerging technology. By using modelling software to explore how AAM vehicles may impact airport operations, along with learning more about how to integrate AAM into controlled airspace, we will be better prepared to begin testing for real-world scenarios.
