The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has unveiled the Kansas Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Roadmap, aiming to enhance transportation across the state. The roadmap, introduced on September 18 in Wichita, is a collaborative effort involving KDOT’s Division of Aviation, the Kansas Department of Commerce, and other aviation stakeholders. It seeks to leverage emerging aviation technology to address transportation challenges and improve multimodal connectivity.
Ray Seif, KDOT Director of Aviation, highlighted that expanding aviation opportunities benefits more than just airports. “Hospitals can benefit from receiving medical deliveries, transporting staff and increasing air ambulance access, especially to rural communities,” he said. Other areas like precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection are also expected to gain from these advancements.
Kansas is well-positioned for this initiative with its 146 public airports and a significant aviation workforce. The state also hosts three universities recognized for their contributions to aviation research and manufacturing. Seif emphasized the importance of advancing aviation technology for national security and economic growth: “Being a leader at this stage is important for the country and also can immensely benefit the state’s economy from opportunities already rolling in.”
Brian Kassin, Chief of Strategic Plans and Programs in KDOT’s Division of Aviation, encouraged firms to establish operations in Kansas: “Come to Kansas to test and stay here to build.” He noted that companies often recognize unique advantages in Kansas once they set up there.
The roadmap outlines key stakeholders and workstreams with activities planned for the near, mid-term, and long-term future. The Emerging Aviation Technology Working Group was formed by government entities, academia, and industry leaders to develop the statewide AAM strategy. This group will play a crucial role in implementing the roadmap through monthly virtual meetings available on KDOT Aviation’s YouTube channel.
For further details on the roadmap or inquiries, visit https://aviation.ks.gov/aam.html or contact via email at UAS@KS.Gov or phone at 785-296-2553.
Information from this article can be found here.
