Helicopter Association International (HAI) welcomed House passage of H.R. 6270, the Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization Act. The bill establishes a pilot program to provide planning and construction grants for advanced air mobility (AAM) infrastructure.

“HAI applauds the House of Representatives for passing legislation that will support the future of the aviation industry,” says James Viola, President and CEO of HAI. “AAM has the ability to expand the unique capabilities of vertical flight and positively impact a greater number of people. Investment in AAM infrastructure today will ensure that the United States is prepared to meet the transportation needs of tomorrow.”

The AAIM Act was first introduced in December 2021 by House Subcommittee on Aviation Chair Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Ranking Member Garret Graves (R-LA-06), and Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The pilot program established in the AAIM Act will provide grants to allow eligible entities to plan for the development and implementation of infrastructure needed to support future AAM operations. Entities are required to submit a comprehensive plan regarding vertiport construction and design within one year of receiving a grant. The bill authorizes $25 million for the pilot program over a period of two years, with each grant amount not to exceed $1 million.

Similar legislation, S. 4246, was recently approved by the Senate Commerce Committee. This companion legislation was introduced by Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kans.) in late May 2022. The bill authorizes $25 million in planning grants for AAM infrastructure