Inaugural Arizona AAM Summit attracts strong turnout
The inaugural Arizona Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) one-day Summit, recently held at ASU SkySong in Scottsdale, Arizona, attracted over 160 attendees, including business leaders, policymakers, educators and technology innovators, reports a press release.
The event was hosted by Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), Honeywell, Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), Arizona Technology Council (AZTC) and Lambert by LLYC. The agenda featured panel discussions, presentations and a fireside chat between Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Chris Camacho, the GPEC President and CEO.
This chat featured Phoenix as a hub for aviation innovation, citing Arizona’s favourable climate, tech community, skilled workforce and established aerospace culture, as essential elements supporting a thriving AAM industry. This was backed up by David Shilliday, VP and GM of Honeywell’s AAM business unit, who said, “Arizona is positioned to lead in advanced air mobility.”
Michelle Olson, the event organiser, commented, “The fact that so many influential industry leaders traveled to Arizona to speak at this summit underscores Arizona’s significance in the Advanced Air Mobility industry.”
She continued, “Their presence here demonstrates the state’s role as a potential hub for AAM innovation and highlights Arizona’s appeal in shaping the future of sustainable and advanced aviation technologies.”
Peter Irvine from the U.S Department of Transportation’s Interagency Working Group offered the audience insights about the national strategy for AAM. Irvine, who has coordinated efforts among 22 federal agencies, provided an update on the strategic plan expected to be revealed in February 2025. His presentation discussed the implementation of AAM that has already included extensive collaboration across government levels, including cybersecurity, TSA, and community outreach.
The audience had a diverse range of stakeholders, from Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, Buckeye Mayor Eric Osborn and Arizona Senator Frank Carroll to leaders in real estate, economic development, aviation, and education.