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 eVTOL air taxis, electric regional aircraft, and new airframe designs, which the FAA is actively working to regulate and integrate into existing airspace.
Key market segments for AAM include urban air taxis (projected as the largest market), regional transport connecting city pairs, personal recreational vehicles, and specialized applications for military, cargo, and public safety sectors.
While AAM promises to expand aviation services, reduce emissions, and offer new transportation options, its widespread adoption faces significant challenges such as battery limitations, complex certification processes, and the need for new infrastructure.
Recreational pilots and military are among the first to explore AAM, with regulatory frameworks like MOSAIC opening doors for simplified personal aircraft, and the FAA's ongoing decisions (e.g., for drones) will heavily influence the future integration and operational scope of these technologies.

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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.