PHX Spearheading Integration of Advanced Air Mobility

Phoenix Sky Harbor completes study and releases framework

PHOENIX – Over the past year, the City of Phoenix Aviation Department has studied how best to implement the next generation of aviation with the goal of establishing innovative advanced air mobility (AAM) technologies in the city’s airport system. Today, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is releasing a summary of the findings, which is available on skyharbor.com.

Advanced air mobility is quickly developing as the next generation air transportation system. The new technology will address challenges of congestion in urban areas, while also boosting sustainability and efficiency for the movement of both people and goods.

“Phoenix is ideally suited to be a national leader in advanced air mobility,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “This new technology can lead to a major boost in our local, regional, and state economy. With excellent infrastructure in place, a long-time history of innovation in aviation and autonomous vehicles, and a record of success with public-private partnerships, the City is perfectly situated to work with the private sector, federal government, and other stakeholders to execute the goals of the framework.”

“Phoenix Sky Harbor, Phoenix Deer Valley, and Phoenix Goodyear airports have identified potential programs for advanced air mobility that could launch in the next few years,” said Aviation Director Chad Makovsky. “Areas of near-term focus include training the next generation of pilots and using new technology to move cargo and freight. We’re excited to break new ground with advanced air mobility partnerships.”

The Arizona Commerce Authority is submitting a proposal—in partnership with the Phoenix Aviation Department—to the Federal Aviation Administration’s Electrical Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). The pilot program seeks to accelerate the deployment of advanced air mobility vehicles and will work to form public-private partnerships between governments and private sector companies to develop new frameworks and regulations for safe operations.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, America’s Friendliest Airport^®, has an annual economic impact of more than $44 billion. On an average day, approximately 1,000 aircraft and more than 130,000 passengers arrive at and depart from Phoenix Sky Harbor every day. PHX Sky Harbor is funded with airport revenue. No tax dollars are used to support the airport. Phoenix Deer Valley (DVT) and Phoenix Goodyear (GYR) airports are owned and operated by the City of Phoenix Aviation Department. DVT is the busiest general aviation airport in the U.S. and serves private, corporate and training flights. GYR is located in the West Valley city of Goodyear and supports private, corporate and training operations.