GAMA applauds release of National Strategy & Comprehensive Plan for AAM

Today, U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean P. Duffy released the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) National Strategy and Comprehensive Plan, which was created by the AAM Interagency Working Group, led by DOT. General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) president and CEO, James Viola, who was present at the announcement, released the following statement regarding the national strategy:

"Today is a significant day for the Advanced Air Mobility sector. GAMA applauds all the hard and collaborative work from the AAM Interagency Working Group to create and put forth this national strategy. This strategy will ensure that the U.S. will be a global leader in AAM through the sector's integration into the national airspace system with a focus on adapting and improving infrastructure; strengthening the aviation workforce; adapting and improving infrastructure; expanding security, safety and automation; and furthering community planning and engagement. The growth of the AAM sector will facilitate additional transportation options, create jobs, stimulate economic activity and competitiveness, and foster further advancement in aerospace technology.

"We are grateful for the leadership of Senator Moran and Representative Davids for championing the bipartisan bill through Congress that led to the creation of the working group and this strategic plan. We commend Secretary Sean Duffy, Deputy Assistant Secretary Dan Edwards, Deputy Director Peter Irvine and the entire interagency working group for their stewardship in getting this strategy finalized.

"GAMA and its members stand ready to support these efforts and further facilitate the growth of AAM in the U.S. and worldwide."

Congress established the AAM Interagency Working Group through the Advanced Air Mobility Coordination and Leadership Act, which was signed into law in 2022. GAMA led the industry effort for this legislation. The law authorized the Secretary of Transportation to establish an interagency working group composed of leaders from key government agencies to plan and coordinate efforts to advance the AAM industry. The working group has been tasked with reviewing and making recommendations on the federal role in the AAM sector beyond the initial critical stage of aircraft certification and operations, with a focus on economic and workforce opportunities, potential physical and digital security risks and mitigations, and infrastructure development.

(article source: General Aviation Manufacturers Association / editor: Anton van Rijsbergen)