Unpacking the AAM National Strategy

Transportation Department unveils roadmap for integrating electric propulsion, powered-lift, autonomy, and other aviation technologies.

Jack Daleo

Friday, December 19, 2025 at 07:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announces the Advanced Air Mobility National Strategy. [Credit: C-SPAN]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) launched a 10-year Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) National Strategy and Comprehensive Plan to safely integrate next-generation aircraft like VTOL air taxis into the national airspace and secure U.S. global leadership in the AAM industry.
The strategy, built on six core pillars, prioritizes automation for scalable operations, infrastructure modernization (including repurposing airports), and developing a domestic workforce to ensure U.S. competitiveness.
Federal officials stressed AAM as a top strategic priority for the White House, crucial for national security, economic growth, and expanding access to underserved areas, explicitly stating the U.S. intent to out-innovate competitors like China.
The AAM strategy is broadly supported by the industry and will be informed by real-world data from the upcoming eVTOL and AAM Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), with initial operations expected to commence in summer 2026.

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The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on Wednesday unveiled a roadmap intended to usher in a new generation of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) air taxis, autonomous cargo aircraft, electric airliners, and other advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau, and Michael Kratzios, President Donald Trump’s chief science and technology policy adviser, were among federal officials present for the rollout of the AAM National Strategy.