As the world of transportation undergoes a profound transformation, one of the most exciting developments is the rapid growth of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).

In his recent essay, Chris Summers, IT Project Manager for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, wrote his observations about the burgeoning sector, stating how “the UAM/AAM sector is not just transforming urban transportation but has significant implications for military operations,” highlighting the profound impact UAM and AAM can have on defense logistics.

In this article, we’ll dive into the growing importance of UAM/AAM, its potential to reduce the carbon impact of flying, and its role in delivering essential resources and personnel swiftly, particularly in military contexts.

The UAM/AAM Revolution

According to industry reports, the UAM/AAM sector is poised for explosive growth, with a projected increase from $5 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion globally by 2028.

This growth is attributed to a convergence of factors, including the rising demand for short-range transportation solutions, advancements in battery technology, electric propulsion systems, and a sustained focus on reducing aviation’s carbon footprint and operational costs.

volocopter eVTOL
Volocopter 2X eVTOL (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

Reducing Carbon Impact

One of the most promising aspects of UAM/AAM is its potential to reduce the carbon impact of flying significantly.

In a world where environmental sustainability is a paramount concern, this technology aligns with the global push to reduce emissions. Most UAM vehicles are pure electric, eliminating the pollution caused by diesel or jet fuel.

Additionally, some designs incorporate hydrogen fuel cells, while a few explore electric-fuel hybrids. The electric nature of these vehicles results in a much quieter operation compared to traditional combustion engines, resembling the near-silent hum of electric cars.