“Innovations driven by new groundbreaking technologies are swiftly disrupting various global economic sectors. Advanced Air Mobility embeds numerous future innovations.” He stated.
Urban Air Mobility (UAM) transports passengers and cargo at lower altitudes within urban areas. The AAM broadens the UAM concept by including extra-urban applications, such as point-to-point passenger shuttles and cargo transport between urban areas, which offer cost-effective, efficient, and swift delivery benefits.
Mr. Berthé noted that the AAM branch is still in the research and development stage, yet it is leading the way in creating innovative opportunities in the aviation industry. Three categories of enablers will drive the implementation of AAM use cases in the coming years: social acceptance, operational feasibility, and financial viability.
“Confidence serves as the cornerstone of social acceptance. Both perceived safety and tangible social benefits are essential. Operational feasibility is also essential for implementing AAM. The technology is advancing enough to ensure safe and reliable operations. Regulations must evolve to ensure reliable certification of new systems and promote standardization within the ecosystem.” He remarked.
Financial viability is crucial for sustaining operations and attracting funds for significant initial capital expenditures. The AAM sector must prove that its economic model is both viable and efficient.
Application Opportunities
The adoption of AAM will enhance existing transportation methods and provide advantages to various industries, including:
Medical, Emergency and Healthcare Operations and Services
Wildlife conservation,
Logistics for remote areas (last-mile deliveries)
(Sub) Urban Passenger transport
Regional Transport Services
Business Aviation
Economic and Society Impacts
Concerns regarding AAM affordability persist. How does the transition to AAM affect existing ground and air transportation methods? The catalytic impact of adopting AAM should be evaluated considering connectivity, tourism, trade, time savings, and job creation.
A robust technology sector is the backbone of any modern society. AAM will generate highly skilled jobs in science and technology, elevating the capacity of a new generation of aviation professionals.
Implementing AAM will require the development of a supply chain consisting of:
Ground Infrastructure,
Safety and Air Traffic flow management,
AAM operators,
OEMs,
Skilled Manpower,
Maintenance,
Mr Berthé called upon stakeholders to put in place implementation roadmaps designed to enhance and accelerate the adoption and mass commercialization of AAM in Africa. This approach will significantly contribute to the development of this ecosystem.
AFRAA Senior Manager Business Development & Communications – Ms. Maureen Kahonge made interventions in two roundtable sessions:
Regulatory Framework and Standards: Harmonizing AAM Regulations Across Africa: Challenges and Best Practice
Human Capital Development and Workforce Training: Building a Skilled Workforce for the AAM Industry
The event, which was its first-ever in Africa, was organized by Kenya Airways subsidiary – Fahari Aviation – under the theme, “Advanced Air Mobility Ecosystem Development in Africa,” from 18-19 March 2025 in Nairobi – Kenya.
