Photo: Volocopter

The German Federal Ministry for Digital and Economic Affairs (BMDV), under Volker Wissing, would like to see "Advanced Air Mobility" implemented in Germany as early as the beginning of the next decade. A strategy outlining test routes starting in 2026 was defined in Berlin today.

According to reports, Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing remains convinced that, despite the bankruptcies in the sector, "drones and air taxis will revolutionize air travel. They create new transport options for goods and people and are driving the development of electric flight and thus climate-friendly aviation. With our AAM strategy, we want to address this disruptive technology with a proactive approach. We want these means of transport of the future to be manufactured and operated in Germany. This will not only create new high-tech jobs but also secure our long-term position as a leading industrial and innovation hub."

The Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI) plans to implement Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in four phases by 2032. Initially, the first test routes are to be established by 2026, followed by the designation of geographically limited AAM areas by 2028. By 2030, these areas are to be expanded to include regional traffic, and finally, nationwide AAM operation is targeted for 2032.

Efficient training frameworks are to be established for pilots to meet the demand for qualified pilots for the AAM. "We are committed to ensuring that holders of existing pilot licenses are permitted to fly eVTOL aircraft after additional training and are aiming for a separate VTOL license in the long term.".

Vibration test at the DLR. Photo: DLR 

So-called "vertiports" are to be established as the necessary infrastructure for the take-off and landing of eVTOLs. This includes the creation of dedicated landing areas as well as the integration of the infrastructure into existing transport systems.

To ensure the safety of air traffic, safe and efficient routes for AAM (Air Traffic Management) operations are to be established. "In doing so," the ministry stated, "we are taking existing airspace structures into account and developing new route concepts.".

The development of new ATM/UTM systems is being accelerated to ensure the safe integration of AAM into existing airspace. The goal is to gradually integrate UTM and ATM so that all air traffic participants can recognize each other.

Research projects and close cooperation with industry and research institutions should be promoted, and a legal framework with administrative bodies should be created to ensure the implementation of AAM.

At the same time, an "attractive investment environment to support AAM development" is to be created. This includes incentives for companies and investors as well as the provision of funding.

the strategy Download