AAM Glossary

An emerging transportation system that moves people and goods by air between locations not traditionally served (or underserved) by existing aviation or surface transport. It uses innovative, often highly automated aircraft (typically electric or hybrid-electric) for urban, suburban, regional, and rural operations. AAM aims for safe, sustainable, affordable, and accessible aviation, including passenger transport, cargo delivery, and public services.

On-demand aerial transport service using AAM aircraft (often eVTOLs or powered-lift vehicles) to carry passengers, similar to ground taxis but in the air.

Operations at very low altitudes (typically under 400 feet), often involving smaller unmanned aircraft in a UAS Traffic Management environment.

A subset of AAM emphasizing longer-range (typically 50–500 miles) intraregional trips, building on existing airport infrastructure for more efficient regional travel.

A subset of AAM focused specifically on operations in metropolitan and urban areas, often using on-demand air transport for passengers and cargo to reduce congestion.

Traditional fixed-wing aircraft requiring runways for takeoff and landing (sometimes included in broader AAM discussions for regional use).

Electrically powered aircraft designed for vertical takeoff, landing, and efficient forward flight. Key to most AAM/UAM visions due to low noise, zero emissions (during operation), and suitability for urban environments.

FAA category for aircraft that combine characteristics of airplanes (wing-borne cruise) and rotorcraft (vertical lift). Most current eVTOL designs fall here.

Aircraft that can operate from very short runways, sometimes considered in AAM for regional or transitional operations.

Capability of an aircraft to take off and land vertically without a runway (like a helicopter), a core feature of many AAM vehicles.

Operations where the aircraft performs all piloting functions independently, with no direct human involvement (a long-term AAM goal).

The entire U.S. airspace, navigation, and air traffic control system into which AAM must safely integrate.

Concept where one pilot (or remote operator) manages multiple functions with heavy automation support.

A system for managing low-altitude unmanned aircraft operations, expected to evolve for broader AAM integration.

Dedicated facility (ground-based, rooftop, or elevated) for AAM/eVTOL takeoff, landing, charging, passenger handling, and parking.

Smaller, simpler landing/takeoff pad for AAM, often without full passenger facilities.

The interconnected network of aircraft, infrastructure, airspace management, regulations, workforce, energy systems, and stakeholders enabling AAM operations.

FAA's near-term implementation plan (focused through 2028) for initial AAM integration and scaled operations.