The future of mobility in aviation is increasingly centered around Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), an emerging aviation ecosystem that leverages new aircraft and technologies for the movement of people and goods. Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) technology, in particular plays a key role in AAM due to its versatility. VTOL aircraft are capable of taking off, hovering, and landing vertically, eliminating the need for traditional runways. This category includes not only helicopters and drones but also cutting-edge electric and hybrid aircraft, designed for short-range flights. VTOL technology is paving the way for more efficient, adaptable, and sustainable transportation solutions across various applications, from passenger travel and cargo delivery to emergency response. 

To support this emerging sector, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is working to update vertiport design standards in the draft Engineering Brief (EB) 105A. These new guidelines aim to accommodate VTOL aircraft and facilitate their safe and seamless integration into the national airspace. As this technology advances at a rapid pace, clear standards are essential to ensure the adoption of low and zero-emission aircraft. 

The United States has been at the forefront of aviation innovation, and the AAM sector presents a new opportunity for leadership. However, other countries are quickly catching up by investing in the necessary infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to support AAM development. For the U.S. to maintain its leadership, swift action is needed to establish comprehensive vertiport design standards. 

ReMo’s recent report, Unlocking a 21st Century Mobility System, underscores the urgency of accelerating policy development and new regulatory frameworks across all modes that will enable advanced transportation technologies to benefit society and the planet at-large while ensuring the U.S. remains competitive and secure in the evolving global transportation landscape. 

Key Areas for Vertiport Design Improvement 

ReMo commends the FAA’s proactive collaboration with industry stakeholders in developing EB 105A. The timeline to finalize the design guidelines by 2024 and publish a performance-based vertiport design Advisory Circular by 2025 is ambitious. Nevertheless, the FAA’s eventual aim to create a comprehensive and unified vertical flight infrastructure standard is essential for heliport and vertiport integration. To support the FAA’s efforts, ReMo submitted technical comments to the Federal Register and recommends the following design considerations: 

1. Multimodal Integration 
   Future vertiports should connect seamlessly with other transportation modes, such as public transit, micromobility and ridesharing, to create an integrated and efficient travel network. Although EB 105A focuses primarily on takeoff and landing areas, guidance on incorporating multimodal connections during early design stages would enhance network connectivity, reduce congestion, and improve passenger experience. For example, designated areas for ridesharing pickups, micromobility parking, and accessible wayfinding can support smoother transfers of people and goods between modes. 
2. Standardizing Charging Infrastructure 
   VTOL charging infrastructure must be flexible yet standardized to avoid market fragmentation. EB 105A should encourage adaptable designs while moving toward common charging standards as the industry matures, similar to how the electric vehicle (EV) sector has adopted Tesla’s North American Charging System (NACS). This strategy can prevent inefficiencies, reduce costs, and improve the user experience. 
3. Designing for Present and Future Aircraft 
   Vertiport designs must accommodate a range of VTOL models rather than favoring specific manufacturers. This flexibility promotes market competition and ensures publicly funded vertiports serve various aircraft. Lessons can be learned from European train stations that accommodate different high-speed train models by designing adaptable platforms and power systems. Similarly, vertiports should support diverse VTOL designs to foster a competitive and inclusive market. 
4. Short- and Long-Term Parking Standards 
   EB 105A should address the distinction between short-term and long-term VTOL parking needs. As VTOL fleets grow, considerations like aircraft size, load capacity, and duration of parking will affect space management and congestion. Clear guidelines for parking configurations can optimize real estate use and improve operational efficiency. 
5. Futureproofing for Emerging Technologies 
   The VTOL industry is rapidly advancing with new energy sources, such as hydrogen fuel cells. Vertiport guidelines must accommodate these evolving technologies to ensure the infrastructure remains relevant. For example, California’s investment in hydrogen refueling and electric charging stations demonstrates the importance of versatile infrastructure that supports multiple energy sources. EB 105A should incorporate safety measures specific to different fuels and technologies, making vertiports adaptable to future advancements. 

Looking Forward 

ReMo supports the FAA’s ambitious efforts to refine EB 105A, aiming to create a regulatory environment that fosters a competitive, innovative, and a safe VTOL industry in the U.S. By prioritizing multimodal integration, charging standardization, and adaptability, the FAA can strengthen America’s position in the global AAM sector. As the FAA progresses toward finalizing the Engineering Brief, ReMo remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the development of resilient and future-proof vertiport infrastructure. 

The future of VTOL aircraft is on the horizon, and with the right standards, the U.S. can continue to lead in shaping the next generation of aviation. 

Dominic Mathew is the Manager of Policy and Partnerships at the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility and leads its workstream on Advanced Air Mobility.