Vermont(VT)

Vermont has officially become the "Electric Aviation Capital" of the United States. Following the December 2025 launch of the AAM National Strategy at BETA Technologies’ headquarters in South Burlington, the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) has declared 2026 the start of a "New Golden Era" of aviation, backed by a dedicated FY 2026 budget for AAM integration.

Infrastructure and Regulatory Framework

Vermont’s strategy is a "Stepwise Integration" model, utilizing existing airport footprints to avoid the need for massive new construction.

• Aviation Program Priorities: The VTrans FY 2026 Budget includes specific line items for "Support of Advanced Air Mobility," focusing on community engagement and STEM education to build a local workforce.
• MTI Grant Program: The 2026 Mobility and Transportation Innovation (MTI) Grant Program is now awarding funds for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through innovative travel demand management, including electric aviation "first-mile/last-mile" programs.
• BETA Charge Cube Network: Vermont is the national lead in "interoperable charging," with a dense network of Charge Cubes (developed by BETA) now operational at major state airports, capable of charging both electric aircraft and ground vehicles.

Pilot Programs and Manufacturer Support

The state’s strategy is inextricably linked to BETA Technologies, whose 200,000-square-foot production facility is now ramping up for 2027 commercial deliveries.

• Regional Connectivity Pilots: VTrans is exploring the use of BETA's ALIA (both VTOL and CTOL variants) for "Zero-Emission Inter-City" routes, connecting Burlington to Montpelier, Rutland, and the broader New England region.
• Medical and Organ Transport: Building on its partnership with United Therapeutics, Vermont serves as a primary testbed for the autonomous transport of synthetic organs and critical medical supplies via electric flight.

Strategic Initiatives and Resources

• VTrans Aviation Program (FY 2026): vtrans.vermont.gov/aviation
• 2026 MTI Grant Program: vtrans.vermont.gov/mti-grants