Report Delivers Key Findings to Position Maryland as a Leader in Advanced Air Mobility

The Maryland Advanced Air Mobility Council today announced the delivery of a report that explores the emerging transportation technologies and opportunities for the state. The Council developed a phased set of key recommendations to help Maryland policymakers and transportation leaders to consider and to integrate Advanced Air Mobility systems into the state’s overall transportation network.

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) refers to innovative technologies that use highly automated, often electric or hybrid-electric aircraft to move people and cargo in ways that enhance the existing transportation network. The systems are most-commonly associated with drones and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Fully tested and deployed AAM systems can improve the movement of people, goods and services while creating new economic development opportunities and quality of life enhancements.

In January 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore issued an Executive Order establishing the Council to assess the state’s readiness and to develop strategic recommendations for integrating new aviation technologies. The Council is comprised of 12 members, including transportation leaders from across government and academia.

“Maryland’s Advanced Air Mobility plan positions the state to be a leader in securing the statewide economic development, employment, and mobility benefits of these groundbreaking new technologies,” said Council Chair, former Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation and former Maryland Secretary of Transportation, John Porcari.

Throughout 2025, the Council met regularly, hosting a series of public meetings in locations across the state. As part of its outreach with Maryland communities, the Council sought public input to create strategies and recommendations. The report was developed with involvement from local communities, private industry, academic institutions and government officials.

The Council determined that Maryland is an attractive market and offers key advantages for AAM businesses and operators. The report helps prepare the state to embrace AAM technologies and to become a national model for AAM readiness. According to the document, “the Council has developed a phased roadmap of recommendations to help Maryland prepare for the integration of AAM, offering near-term actions that build toward long-term success.”

The Council’s final report outlines policy considerations, key strategies and pathways for implementation to further develop AAM within the state.

“This report will help ensure Maryland is prepared for the full potential of the emerging Advanced Air Mobility systems,” said Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director/CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration and member of the Council. “These technologies will transform air transportation and improve mobility for both urban and rural communities while creating highly skilled jobs and reducing emissions.”

As part of the undertaking, the Council report highlights societal, economic and environmental benefits of this emerging industry and offers recommendations centered on strengths and opportunities that exist within Maryland, including:

• the state’s geographic location on the Eastern Seaboard;
• existing aviation facilities and stakeholders;
• academic and research institutions;
• a world class aeromedical industry; and
• an educated and technically skilled workforce.

The report also identifies actions that the state can take in the near-term, mid-term and long-term, as a roadmap to help Maryland prepare for these new AAM technologies.

The Council’s recommendations complement the federal Advanced Air Mobility National Strategy developed by the congressionally directed Advanced Air Mobility Interagency Working Group. By focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, security, community engagement and workforce development, the report aligns closely with the proposed federal strategy. Together, they outline a clear and achievable path for deploying advanced air mobility in the state.

For more information about the Council or to view the report, visit the Maryland Advanced Air Mobility Council’s webpage.

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