New Era Awaits for Advanced Air Mobility

AAM poised to shape future of aviation over the next decade.

Jack Daleo

Monday, August 24, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Advanced air mobility covers novel propulsion systems, airframes, and other tech. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) encompasses a wide range of novel aviation technologies, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, cargo drones, and new airframe designs, with the FAA actively developing regulations and pilot training for their integration.
AAM is poised to expand aviation services across diverse applications, from urban air taxis and regional electric flights to personal recreational aircraft, military uses, and potentially "flying cars," rather than fully replacing existing transportation.
While promising benefits like reduced emissions and new operational capabilities, AAM faces significant challenges including battery limitations, manufacturing complexities, and the need for further regulatory development, with widespread commercial adoption expected to take a decade or more.

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Advanced air mobility (AAM) has become a popular buzzword in aviation circles. The FAA is developing regulations for it. Airports and airlines are preparing for it. But what exactly is AAM, and what will it mean for pilots?

AAM broadly covers any novel aircraft, airframe, or propulsion technology. That includes electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVOTL) air taxis, small cargo drones, and aircraft that fly with little to no pilot input, using complex arrays of cameras and sensors.