Building the Skies of Tomorrow: Senator Farnsworth's Vision for Advanced Air Mobility

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                             Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Building the Skies of Tomorrow: Senator Farnsworth's Vision for Advanced Air Mobility  

PHOENIX, ARIZONA—As electric "air taxis" approach everyday use, Senate Appropriations and Transportation Committee Chairman David Farnsworth is taking proactive steps to ensure that Arizona not only prepares for, but also leads in, this next phase of transportation. In collaboration with aviation experts, local partners, and industry leaders, Chairman Farnsworth is laying the groundwork for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to become an integral part of Arizona's transportation future.

AAM, a transportation system utilizing electric aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing for short-distance passenger travel, may sound futuristic, but the concept has been in development for years and is already being tested in countries such as China, South Korea, and the UAE. These aircraft, often referred to as "air taxis," offer new possibilities for reducing congestion, improving rural connectivity, and supporting emergency operations.

AAM relies on a network of specialized landing sites to operate effectively. There are two main types of these sites: vertiports and vertistops. Vertiports are full-scale facilities that provide passenger services, charging stations, large landing pads, and air traffic control capabilities. They are similar to heliports but are designed specifically for lightweight electric aircraft, as opposed to helicopters. In contrast, vertistops are smaller locations meant for quick landings, much like a bus stop. Together, these facilities form a flexible and scalable transportation network that can cater to the diverse needs of both urban and rural areas.

"We are not preparing for science fiction; we are preparing for the reality that is already unfolding around the world," said Chairman Farnsworth. "Advanced Air Mobility offers an opportunity to rethink how we transport people and goods in a faster, safer, and more sustainable way. Arizona possesses the talent, space, and vision to take the lead in this field. I am committed to establishing a solid foundation now to transform the future of travel into a reality. My dedication lies in ensuring that Arizona remains at the forefront while prioritizing public safety and fiscal responsibility as policy develops."

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov