TxDOT Aviation Division

The funding subcommittee focused on identifying potential funding sources for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) initiatives by reviewing mechanisms used by other states for transportation. Key discussions included the role of state economic development corporations in administering funds, the development of public awareness campaigns, and the potential for a centralized safety training website for recreational drone operators. Participants also discussed the utility of a simulation platform for vertiport site assessment and the status of federal infrastructure planning grants.

The subcommittee focused on refining recommendations for the advanced air mobility sector, particularly addressing legislative guidance for legislative outreach. Key discussions involved the importance of providing specific, actionable requests to legislators, justifying funding, and demonstrating economic impact. The group discussed the distinction between state agency roles in industry advocacy versus general infrastructure and policy oversight. Additionally, the committee reviewed revisions to proposed initiatives, including workforce development strategies, infrastructure projects, and the potential for a dedicated state-level position to support industry adoption and promotion.

The subcommittee discussed legislative recommendations for advanced air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems, focusing on disaster management, safety training for first responders, cybersecurity risks, and air traffic management. The committee deliberated on the importance of including drones in the definition of advanced air mobility to ensure eligibility for funding and to support innovation. Plans were made to refine these recommendations and coordinate with relevant state agencies and the governor's office for implementation.

The subcommittee discussed legislative recommendations for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), focusing on funding and implementation strategies. Key topics included assigning state entity roles to various recommendations, the continuation of the AAM advisory committee, and the potential for a dedicated state-level AAM program manager or office to serve as a central point of contact. Additional discussion covered the integration of AAM into existing aviation infrastructure, cybersecurity risks, workforce development, and the importance of public awareness campaigns. Members also addressed potential budget allocations for committee operations and staffing roles, as well as the need for cross-agency collaboration and outreach at major industry symposiums.

The meeting focused on the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry, covering topics such as subcommittee summaries, AI and cybersecurity risks, community outreach strategies, and definitions of AAM. Key discussions included the use of drones for inspecting critical public and private infrastructure, disaster relief and humanitarian aid, emergency response, and drone-as-first-responder programs. The group also discussed the need for collaboration between public and private entities, legislative support, and the coordination of airspace management during emergencies.