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Utah Provides Blueprint of How AAM Operations Might Look at State Level

The Utah Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division released a report on how drones, electric air taxis, and other new aircraft may fit into the state’s skies.

Wednesday, November 01, 2023 at 05:07 PM ET

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Zipline drones similar to this one already deliver medical supplies in Utah with partner Intermountain Healthcare. [Courtesy: Zipline]

Key Takeaways:

Utah has released a comprehensive, multi-phase plan to integrate Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) services, including delivery drones and electric air taxis, into the state's airspace, aiming for initial operations by 2028.
The plan identifies substantial economic benefits and carbon emission reductions, leveraging Utah's existing assets like airports and communication networks, but also addresses potential limitations such as public safety and privacy concerns.
Key infrastructure needs include developing vertiports (e.g., at airports or converted parking garages) and a statewide Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system, with implementation phased over the next 15-30 years.
The report also provides guidance on necessary legislative adjustments, such as defining AAM terms and establishing avigation easements, and outlines various state and federal funding mechanisms to support the program's long-term development.

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A few months after the FAA released its Innovate28 plan for scaled advanced air mobility (AAM) operations by 2028, Utah officials have revealed their own plan to integrate delivery drones, electric air taxis, vertiports, and more into the state’s airspace.

At the request of the state legislature, the Utah AAM Working Group, part of the Utah Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division, this week released a legislative report and study on the implementation of AAM services in regions such as the Salt Lake City metro area.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.