GOAA selected as key partner in Florida’s advanced air mobility initiative

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Central Florida is on the brink of becoming a frontrunner in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) innovation. A significant legislative move on December 21, 2023, led to the proposal in the Florida House of Representatives to appoint the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) as the designated AAM test hub for Florida.

Advanced Air Mobility, as outlined in this bill, refers to an aviation system that predominantly utilizes powered-lift aircraft for transporting people or goods in urban or regional areas. This initiative aims to establish a system of Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and vertiport infrastructures, offering a swift and adaptable travel option for locals and tourists alike. AAM is expected to revolutionize various sectors including medical transport, emergency services, law enforcement, and disaster response.

Kevin J. Thibault, the CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, expressed gratitude towards State Representative Doug Bankson for recognizing the potential of GOAA’s facilities. He noted that Orlando International Airport, renowned for its multimodal connectivity, is an ideal location for AAM experimentation, thanks to its ample land availability. This site is primed for fostering the growth, development, and commercialization of AAM technologies.

The Aviation Authority has a distinguished history in pioneering aviation technology advancements. GOAA is committed to participating in a joint venture that will shape the future of the aviation industry. This collaborative effort includes the Florida Department of Transportation, other major Florida airports, and eVTOL aircraft manufacturers, aiming to transform the landscape of short-distance, direct air travel.

Industry experts believe that integrating AAM into the current National Airspace System could lead to significant benefits like lowering carbon emissions, minimizing noise pollution, generating employment, expanding air services to underserved areas, and diversifying revenue sources for airports.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority proudly manages Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s key air travel hubs. MCO is a globally recognized airport, accommodating over 50 million passengers annually across its Main Terminal and the innovative Terminal C. Terminal C is linked to an Intermodal Terminal Facility and enhances passenger experiences with fully automated TSA screening lanes. ORL, strategically situated near downtown Orlando, offers essential general aviation access to the city’s core.

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