Flying vehicles aren’t a sci-fi dream anymore. They’re starting to move people and goods in real ways. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is in development across the world, and it could change how freight moves—especially for logistics, healthcare, and emergency response.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Advanced Air Mobility?
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is about using new electric aircraft—often called eVTOLs—that can take off and land vertically. They’re built for short flights in cities or hard-to-reach areas and don’t need runways.
AAM could be used for:
- Small cargo deliveries
- Emergency medical shipments
- Short trips between cities
- Reaching remote locations
It won’t replace trucks or planes. It’s another layer of transport, meant to improve speed and access where road transport struggles.
Who’s Building This?
United States
NASA is working with private companies and government agencies to figure out how AAM will fit into national airspace. They’re testing aircraft designs, energy systems, and communication tech.
Europe
The EU is building what’s called “Innovative Air Mobility” (IAM). They’re focused on:
- Creating vertiports (small landing hubs)
- Planning secure air routes
- Matching tech with city infrastructure and safety needs
China
China has set up test zones for eVTOLs and is backing development with policies. There’s strong interest in using AAM for both cargo and passengers in high-traffic cities.
What’s In the Way?
Infrastructure
These aircraft need places to take off and land. That means new landing hubs in the right locations.
Power
They run on electricity, so charging stations and grid capacity matter.
Air Traffic
These aircraft will fly lower and more frequently than planes. Managing that airspace safely will need new tracking systems.
Regulations
Airspace rules must be updated to cover new aircraft, training, and certifications.
Aircraft Readiness
The tech needs to be reliable—engines, materials, software, and systems that work even in bad weather.
Cost
It needs to be affordable to scale. High prices will hold it back, especially for logistics.
Public Comfort
People need to feel safe with low-flying aircraft in their communities. Concerns about noise, safety, and privacy are real.
Why It Matters for Logistics
At RS Express, we see the potential for AAM in logistics—especially when speed and access matter most.
Here’s how it could help:
- Critical shipments: Medical gear, lab samples, and urgent orders
- Remote delivery: Getting supplies to northern communities or flood zones
- Internal freight: Moving goods between facilities without road delays
- Short-haul delivery: Light packages that need to move fast
Example: When roads are washed out and time is tight, a cargo drone could fly medicine to where it’s needed most.
Cleaner Freight
AAM isn’t just about speed. Electric aircraft can also cut down on emissions. That’s useful for companies trying to hit sustainability goals. Fewer trucks on the road means less traffic, less fuel, and a smaller carbon footprint.
If powered by clean energy, AAM could move the industry closer to net-zero targets.
What Comes Next?
AAM isn’t mainstream yet—but it’s close.
Governments are funding it. Companies are testing it. Infrastructure is going up. Rules are being written.
For logistics businesses, this is about gaining speed, flexibility, and new access—not just flying vehicles.
At RS Express, we’re always looking ahead. As new delivery options emerge, we’ll keep adapting to best serve our customers needs helping you, Deliver on your promises!