What is Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)?
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) represents the next frontier in
aviation, integrating cutting-edge technologies such as unmanned
aerial systems (UAS), electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL)
aircraft, and autonomous flight systems. These advancements aim to
revolutionize cargo delivery, disaster response, infrastructure
inspection, and even passenger transport.
AAM's focus extends beyond mere flight; it encompasses enhanced
air traffic management, robust ground infrastructure, and equitable
access to aviation services. For Alaska, a state heavily reliant on
aviation due to its vast and remote geography, AAM holds
transformative potential.
Image: A futuristic rendering of unmanned drones delivering
medical supplies to a remote Alaskan village during a
snowstorm.
Alaska's Unique AAM Challenges and
Opportunities
Alaska's reliance on aviation for connectivity and commerce
positions it as a natural leader in AAM adoption. However, the
state's extreme weather, sparse population centers, and limited
infrastructure create unique challenges. These include:
- Remote Operations: Managing unmanned flights in regions with
limited connectivity and navigation aids.
- Safety and Compliance: Addressing harsh weather conditions and
unpredictable flight environments.
- Equitable Access: Ensuring all Alaskan communities benefit from
these innovations.
Despite these hurdles, Alaska's geography also makes it a prime
testing ground for AAM, with initiatives already underway to
modernize air traffic control, improve weather monitoring, and
integrate AAM technologies into daily operations.
Image: A digital twin map of Alaska highlighting weather systems
and AAM infrastructure.
Preparing for the Future of Aviation Safety
The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
(DOT&PF) has launched several initiatives to prepare for the
integration of AAM:
- Digital Twin Technology: Creating virtual replicas of Alaska's
airspace to simulate and optimize flight routes.
- Enhanced Weather Monitoring: Expanding the use of weather
cameras, AWOS (Automated Weather Observation Systems), and
innovative meteorological UAS.
- Ground Infrastructure: Developing vertiports, UAS charging
stations, and resilient communication networks.
- Safety Programs: Implementing the Don Young Alaska Aviation
Safety Initiative to reduce accidents and improve pilot
resources.
These programs are supported by the FAA Reauthorization Act of
2024, which provides funding and policy frameworks for advanced
technologies and safety protocols.
Key Projects in Action
- Bethel as a Testbed: Bethel Airport is serving
as a key location for testing new airspace management tools and UAS
technologies.
- Alaska Flight Information Exchange (AK-FIX):
This public digital service integrates sensor data and flight
planning tools to ensure safe AAM operations.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with
NASA, Collins Aerospace, and local stakeholders to ensure Alaska's
AAM systems meet federal and state needs.
A Vision for the Future
Alaska's commitment to AAM is more than an investment in
technology; it's a commitment to sustainability, safety, and
equity. By leveraging renewable energy for UAS operations,
improving access to remote communities, and creating new economic
opportunities, Alaska is setting a global standard for integrating
AAM into a challenging environment.
Join Us in Shaping the FutureStay connected as Alaska leads the
charge in aviation innovation. Together, we're not just imagining
the future-we're building it.
Task Contact: Ryan Marlow,
ryan.marlow@alaska.gov, 907-269-0741