With backing from across the industry, the U.S. House passed a bill this week to authorize funding to foster the development of the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector, including leveraging existing vertiports and other facilities to establish the appropriate infrastructure. Passed by a 338-73 margin, H.R.6270, the Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization Act, was introduced in December by House aviation subcommittee chair Rick Larsen (D-Washington) with ranking Republican Garret Graves (Louisiana) and Rep. Dina Titus (D-Nevada) and had attracted nearly 30 bipartisan co-sponsors.

The bill would establish a two-year pilot program under which eligible entities—such as airport sponsors, transit agencies, or other municipal entities—could apply for grants toward the development of AAM infrastructure. The bill authorizes a total of $25 million over the two years of the program.

“We applaud the House of Representatives for passing this important legislation, which will support the future of on-demand aviation,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “The targeted investments outlined in this legislation will assist in creating new, innovative, and sustainable air transportation networks throughout our country that will support hundreds of thousands of green jobs while also ensuring our nation’s global leadership in aviation.”

GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce added, “It is very encouraging to see Congress placing a priority on the growth of advanced air mobility. The support of Congress will be instrumental in the emergence of AAM and its facilitation of additional transportation options, job creation, economic growth, further environmental sustainability, and advancement in aerospace technology. Through proper planning and infrastructure preparation, and close cooperation with the FAA on enabling rulemaking, we can lead the way in this promising new sector.” 

Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) have introduced similar legislation (S.4246) in the Senate.