New Mexico(NM)

New Mexico is positioning itself as a "Testing and Energy Hub" for the AAM industry, leveraging its high-altitude environment and aggressive grants for advanced energy innovation. As of January 2026, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) Aviation Division is utilizing Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) to modernize its state aviation system for electric and autonomous operations.

Infrastructure and Regulatory Framework

New Mexico’s strategy centers on the revitalization of its regional airports to support a "hub-and-spoke" AAM network.

• FY 2026 Infrastructure Grants: New Mexico is currently deploying a portion of the $21 million in FAA funding secured in late 2025 to reconstruct aprons and modernize lighting at over two dozen airports, including Lea County Regional and Santa Fe Regional.
• Resiliency and Data: NMDOT is using formula funding to increase the resilience of its transportation system and modernize data collection, a critical precursor for the "real-time" data requirements of low-altitude AAM traffic management.
• Multimodal Integration: The state’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan emphasizes "Aviation, Railroad, and Ports" as a unified multimodal sector, ensuring that new vertiports are integrated into existing transit hubs.

Pilot Programs and Manufacturer Support

New Mexico is unique in its direct financial support for the R&D side of the AAM supply chain.

• Advanced Energy Award Pilot Program: This state-funded grant awards up to $1 million to small businesses engaged in advanced energy innovation and commercialization. This program is a primary draw for eVTOL component manufacturers focusing on battery and propulsion technology.
• Military-to-Civilian Pipelines: The state is leveraging its extensive military aviation presence (Albuquerque/Holloman) to develop workforce pipelines for AAM pilots and maintenance technicians, aligning with the December 2025 National AAM Strategy.

Strategic Initiatives and Resources

• NMDOT Planning & Multimodal: dot.nm.gov/planning-multimodal
• NM Advanced Energy Award: edd.newmexico.gov/tio/nmaea