South Dakota(SD)

South Dakota is adopting a "Smart Integration" approach to AAM, viewing advanced aviation as a natural extension of its intermodal transportation system. As of January 2026, the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) is operationalizing its 2026–2029 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), which for the first time classifies AAM infrastructure under its modernization and "Agile Logistics" priorities.

Infrastructure and Regulatory Framework

South Dakota’s strategy focuses on "preservation-plus"—maintaining its vast network of 70+ public-use airports while prepping them for electric flight.

• Smart Integration Initiative: SDDOT has categorized AAM as part of its "Smart Integration" pillar, focusing on the strategic placement of utilities and radio spectrum to support automated weather detection and aircraft charging.
• Catchment Area Analysis: The state has recently updated its State Aviation System Plan to define specific "AAM Catchment Regions," identifying which airports will serve as primary logistics hubs for the state’s agriculture and resource sectors.
• Federal-State Alignment: SDDOT is actively coordinating with the FAA's "iTeams" to ensure that local zoning and licensing of infrastructure at regional airports align with the December 2025 National AAM Strategy.

Pilot Programs and Manufacturer Support

The state is leveraging its low-complexity airspace to pilot "Middle-Mile" cargo and heavy-lift logistics.

• Freight Capacity Expansion: While primarily focused on rail, the 2026 Freight Capacity Project serves as a blueprint for how South Dakota intends to integrate AAM—using autonomous pods to bridge the gap between rail terminals and rural production sites.
• Winter Operations Testing: Following the "Battle of the Blades" collaboration with North Dakota, the state is marketing its harsh winter environment as a primary validation site for eVTOL battery thermal management and de-icing technologies.

Strategic Initiatives and Resources

• SDDOT 2026–2029 STIP: dot.sd.gov/stip-2026
• SD State Aviation System Plan: dot.sd.gov/aviation-plan