Prepared for takeoff: Arizona charts course in next-gen transportation

Not long ago, the idea of cars driving themselves seemed like something out of a sci-fi movie. But Arizona leaned in. Today we’re a national leader in autonomous vehicle innovation, with self-driving cars navigating city streets and even making curbside airport drop-offs.

Now, thanks to a major legislative win this session, Arizona is setting its sights higher, laying the groundwork for a new era of electric-powered air travel.

With the passage of SB 1307, Arizona is officially getting serious about advanced air mobility, the use of electric aircraft to carry passengers and cargo across urban and regional areas. Think flying taxis, battery-powered passenger planes, and next-gen air vehicles designed to shuttle people and packages above city streets—quietly, cleanly, and without a runway.

In a fast-growing state like Arizona, where infrastructure must keep pace with expansion, the need for alternative transportation solutions is no longer just a long-term vision, but a near-term necessity.

SB 1307 directs the state to develop a comprehensive plan for integrating electric aircraft charging stations and vertiports—designated takeoff and landing areas—into Arizona’s broader aviation infrastructure. It also designates a statewide expert within the Arizona Department of Transportation to serve as a resource for local governments and industry partners. And it provides tools to help communities prepare for, attract, and safely integrate this transformative technology.

Much like Arizona did with autonomous vehicles a decade ago, we’re sending a clear message: innovation is welcome here. This legislation signals to manufacturers, infrastructure developers, and air mobility companies that Arizona isn’t just ready to test this technology—we’re ready to build around it.

That readiness translates to jobs, investment, and a competitive advantage in a sector projected to reach tens of billions of dollars in value globally. States that lead early will reap the biggest rewards.

Why does this matter? Advanced air mobility has the potential to fundamentally reshape how goods and people move, reducing congestion, increasing regional connectivity, and unlocking new opportunities for rural and underserved communities. By acting now, we ensure Arizona isn’t left reacting to change later, it’s helping lead it.

The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Arizona Manufacturers Council were proud to champion SB 1307 because we understand what’s at stake. With our strong aerospace and manufacturing base, pro-innovation policies, and collaborative public-private ecosystem, Arizona is uniquely equipped to be the hub for next-generation air mobility. This bill lays the foundation to make that vision a reality.

Arizona’s leadership in aerospace and defense didn’t happen by accident. We’re now ranked among the top three states in the nation for aerospace manufacturing strength, thanks to a deep talent pool, supportive policies, and global powerhouses like Boeing, Raytheon, Honeywell, and Northrop Grumman continuing to invest here. SB 1307 builds on that momentum—reinforcing our competitive edge and helping communities prepare for the future of flight.

Arizona’s economy thrives when we lean into what’s next. By continuing to embrace forward-looking policies like SB 1307, we’re making it clear: Arizona isn’t just along for the ride—we’re in the pilot’s seat.

Grace Appelbe is the executive director of the Arizona Manufacturers Council.