Airports in the Middle East are being urged to adapt their master plans for the coming wave of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles, according to the Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East.

AAMs, encompassing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and drones, are expected to revolutionise short-distance transportation within the next decade. Regulators are grappling with how to integrate these new vehicles into existing airspace and airport infrastructure.

The ACI, representing over 600 airports, presented its recommendations at a recent conference of civil aviation regulators in Riyadh.  It is calling for close collaboration between governments, airports, and industry players to establish a clear roadmap for AAM adoption. This includes incorporating dedicated landing pads and vertiports into future airport designs, essentially transforming them into multi-modal transportation hubs.

The integration of AAM and the construction of colossal airports represent a powerful synergy. AAMs can seamlessly connect passengers to these mega-hubs, further enhancing their reach and efficiency. This confluence of innovation and infrastructure expansion positions the Middle East as a future leader in the global aviation landscape.

At the ICAO Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for Middle East region, ACI stressed the need for “harmonised standards, certifications, and policy frameworks” to ensure the safe and secure integration of AAMs alongside traditional air travel.

“States are encouraged to consider AAM in airport master planning and engage in continuous and inclusive dialogue with stakeholders,” the conference noted in its closing remarks.

Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, emphasised the importance of a forward-looking approach. “We urge governments to put in place regulations tailored to the needs of the aviation industry and passengers, as well as ensuring that aviation stakeholders are provided with the necessary resources and support. We are confident that these initiatives will help to ensure that the aviation industry is well-positioned for the challenges of the future.” 

ACI believes that embracing AAM and fostering regional connectivity will be key drivers of economic growth and trade in the Middle East.

The UAE’s first operational vertiport for vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) was unveiled in April this year at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. The temporary vertiport facility has been constructed in line with the most recent industry standards and regulations set by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).