FAA Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Implementation Plan

The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Implementation Plan outlines the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) strategy to integrate advanced air mobility technologies and operations into the National Airspace System (NAS). The plan focuses on the Innovate28 (I28) initiative, which aims to establish integrated AAM operations at one or more key sites by 2028. 

This initiative involves collaboration between the FAA, other government agencies, industry stakeholders, and communities to ensure safe, efficient, and scalable AAM operations.

The AAM Implementation Plan is a comprehensive document that details the steps and methodologies required to integrate AAM into the NAS. Key sections of the plan include:

AAM is defined as a transportation system that moves people and property by air using advanced technologies, such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The FAA's role includes ensuring safety, amending operational rules, and developing permanent powered lift operations and pilot training regulations.

I28 is an FAA initiative aimed at achieving integrated AAM operations by 2028. It involves partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and operators to conduct larger-scale operations at key sites, leveraging existing infrastructure and developing new vertiports as necessary.

The plan is a living document that evolves with ongoing stakeholder collaboration. It outlines the near-term goals of the I28 initiative, including key site operations, workstreams, an integrated master schedule, and an AAM evolution framework.

This section describes the expected operational environment in 2028, including assumptions about AAM aircraft and operations. It covers airspace usage, route structures, air traffic control services, and necessary infrastructure modifications.

The FAA has established internal workstreams (iTeams) focused on certification, operational suitability, airspace and air traffic management, infrastructure, environment, hazardous materials safety, and community engagement. Each workstream addresses specific challenges and gaps to support I28 goals.

The integrated master schedule includes a comprehensive list of activities required by FAA lines of business, industry, and local governments to enable AAM operations at key sites. It is designed to be iterative and adaptable to specific site requirements.

The framework outlines the incremental advancements in regulatory, technological, and operational aspects necessary for AAM integration. It describes six maturity levels of AAM capabilities, from initial certification testing to a mature ecosystem with high-density, autonomous operations.