Tampa International Airport (TPA) has hosted a discussion with transportation leaders and industry partners across Florida on the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
The event was organised by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in collaboration with the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority. This marks the first of three tabletop discussions to chart the course for integrating electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into Florida’s transportation network.
The discussion brought together city and state regulatory planners, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), experts from the University of South Florida, and representatives from private companies spearheading AAM initiatives in Florida.
In November, TPA also hosted the first major eVTOL test flight conducted by Volocopter, underscoring Florida’s commitment to embracing emerging aviation technologies.
Brett Fay, Vice President of General Aviation for the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority said:Advanced Air Mobility is a concept that has the potential to completely transform the transportation landscape throughout Florida, and it’s well on the way to being an everyday reality. Florida is leading the way in laying the groundwork for AAM, so this has been a great opportunity to meet with stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to consider everyone’s needs as we move forward with these exciting new developments.
In the coming months. the FDOT plans to host additional discussions to address infrastructure needs, regulatory challenges, and community integration strategies necessary for the successful implementation of AAM services in Florida.
These discussions will focus on delineating AAM operations, distinguishing them from traditional aviation, and empowering local officials and community leaders to embrace this technology.
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue said: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. Florida is an ideal target market for this technology and for related business opportunities. The efforts we are making now lay the groundwork for this upcoming option and will ensure success in the future.
