Developed to support the deployment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), urban air mobility solutions, and other advanced aviation platforms, the program will serve as an operational proving ground for new capabilities that align with Virginia’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) strategy, public-private priorities, and long-term economic goals, according to state aviation officials.
AAM
Georgia Tech opens new Aircraft Prototyping Laboratory
The Georgia Institute of Technology has officially opened its new Aircraft Prototyping Laboratory, which is dedicated to advancing research in electric and autonomous flight in collaboration with academic, government, and industry partners.
Caravan flies 7,000 miles without a pilot
Joby Aviation recently completed a first-of-its-kind demonstration of its autonomous flight technology, logging more than 7,000 miles across more than 40 hours in a Cessna Caravan without a pilot.
AIR’s eVTOL prototype receives FAA airworthiness certificate
The certification is “a key step in the company’s mission to bring electric aviation to everyday life,” said company officials, who note the certification accelerates AIR’s flight testing at its facility near West Palm Beach, Florida.
GE Aerospace partners with BETA to advance hybrid electric flight
Under the new agreement, GE Aerospace and BETA plan to develop a hybrid electric turbogenerator for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) applications, including long-range Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, future BETA aircraft, and other potential applications.
Expanding electrification across Michigan
Avflight, in partnership with electric aerospace company BETA Technologies, has installed electric aircraft charging infrastructure at four of its Michigan-based FBOs.
Creating an interstate in the sky
The initiative, the nation’s first interstate advanced air mobility corridor, will aim to connect Charlotte and Atlanta via a dedicated air route for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones, according to North Carolina officials.
AAM initiative takes off in Michigan
Projects receiving funding will address delivery needs in healthcare, emergency services, and the automotive industry while also advancing academic research in the area, according to state officials.
Hartzell and BETA Technologies team on new propeller
Hartzell Propeller has received FAA Part 35 Type Certification for the first propeller designed specifically for advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft.