In a recent panel discussion at the 2022 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, industry experts discussed the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to its integration into business aviation flight departments. Key points of the discussion included the need for public acceptance, regulatory considerations, and infrastructure requirements for these emerging technologies. Panelists also emphasized the rapid growth of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry, the importance of sustainability in AAM, and the necessity for traditional flight departments to adapt to new electric or hybrid aircraft demands. The panel concluded that early engagement with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and preparation for AAM integration are essential for the future readiness of airspace.
Introduction
From Aviation Today By Jessica Reed
Panel Discussion on Advanced Air Mobility
Kristen Costello of DroneUp, Paul McDuffee of Supernal, and Charlton Evans of End State Solutions discussed the challenges facing business aviation flight departments as the advanced air mobility industry takes off. The panel discussion was moderated by Toni Drummond of Global Aerial Management Group. (Photo: Jessica Reed)
Challenges and Opportunities in AAM Integration
ORLANDO, Fla. — Business aviation flight departments need to prepare for advanced air mobility (AAM) operations and related technologies that are emerging. There are many hurdles that the introduction of advanced technologies must overcome, including public acceptance, regulations, and infrastructure requirements.
Insights from Panelists
Panelists at the 2022 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in October discussed the many possibilities of emerging AAM technologies as well as how to overcome some of the challenges of this industry. The educational session was titled, “Tomorrow’s Flight Department – The Opportunities and Challenges of AAM Integration.”
Key Points Discussed
Kristen Costello, Senior Director of Flight Compliance at DroneUp, remarked that no one could have predicted the rapid growth of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry when Part 107 was written back in 2016. “What we’re seeing now is a rapid evolution,” Costello stated. “What used to be the standalone person with the Mavic going out and doing inspections is now transitioning to a phase where you’re seeing large-scale delivery operations, and some of these departments are even pursuing 135.”
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is a primary focus for AAM manufacturers, stated Paul McDuffee, an executive operations analyst at Hyundai’s Supernal who participated in the panel. Almost all of the major players in the industry are relying on electric propulsion as the primary motor force behind their aircraft.
Infrastructure and Operations
“The flight department itself has to evolve to what new electric or hybrid aircraft demand for the infrastructure they use to deploy and dispatch the aircraft,” noted Charlton Evans, CEO and Principal Consultant at End State Solutions.
Future of AAM Operations
AAM operations, at least in the near-term, will look a lot like those of traditional aircraft, believes McDuffee. “There’s a lot of discussion now about what can reasonably be accomplished in the near-term as opposed to the long-term,” he explained.
Engagement and Collaboration
It will probably be necessary for developers of eVTOL aircraft to become involved in the services traditionally offered by FBOs and MRO facilities, McDuffee noted. He also commented that it will be incredibly important for flight departments interested in AAM to engage early on with the OEMs.
Looking Ahead
The early days of advanced air mobility operations are likely going to mirror some aspects of the drone space, such as necessary exemptions or waivers, Costello remarked. “We need to start [looking at AAM integration] now so the airspace is ready when the aircraft are,” she said.
Question & Answer
What were the key points discussed in the panel discussion on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)?
The key points discussed included the need for public acceptance, regulatory considerations, infrastructure requirements, rapid growth of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry, sustainability in AAM, and the necessity for traditional flight departments to adapt to new electric or hybrid aircraft demands.
What did Kristen Costello mention about the growth of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry?
Kristen Costello highlighted the rapid evolution of the UAS industry, transitioning from standalone individuals using drones for inspections to large-scale delivery operations, with some departments even pursuing Part 135 operations.
What is the primary focus for AAM manufacturers according to Paul McDuffee?
Paul McDuffee mentioned that sustainability is a primary focus for AAM manufacturers, with most relying on electric propulsion as the main motor force for their aircraft.
How does Charlton Evans suggest flight departments evolve in response to new electric or hybrid aircraft demands?
Charlton Evans noted that flight departments need to evolve their infrastructure to meet the demands of new electric or hybrid aircraft for deployment and dispatch.
Why is early engagement with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) important for flight departments interested in AAM?
Early engagement with OEMs is crucial for flight departments interested in AAM to ensure readiness for the future integration of advanced air mobility technologies.
