Ohio eIPP Proposal Uses New Aviation Technology to Solve National Healthcare Challenge

Core Insights - Ohio has submitted a proposal to the FAA's Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) aimed at addressing medical transport challenges across a four-state region, with operational aircraft expected to be deployed within three months of approval [1] - The proposal is backed by over $1.2 billion in existing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure and aims to demonstrate the immediate operational benefits of advanced air mobility technologies [1][2] - The initiative is supported by a coalition including JobsOhio, BETA Technologies, Joby Aviation, and the states of Michigan, Indiana, and Kentucky, highlighting a multistate approach to AAM [1][6] Ohio's AAM Ecosystem - Ohio is recognized as having the most powerful aviation and aerospace ecosystem in the U.S., with over 640 aerospace companies and the third-largest manufacturing workforce [2][8] - The state has attracted significant investments, including a $300 million strategic investment from GE Aerospace in BETA Technologies to accelerate hybrid electric aviation development [14] - Ohio's commitment to AAM is demonstrated through its infrastructure, including the U.S. Air Force Research Lab and the SkyVision UAS test site, which provide essential testing capabilities for AAM technologies [12][13] Collaborative Efforts - The proposal emphasizes cross-sector collaboration, with JobsOhio playing a key role in attracting investments and building infrastructure for AAM [2][10] - Michigan, Indiana, and Kentucky have formally supported Ohio's eIPP application, underscoring the importance of regional alignment for the safe integration of AAM technologies [6][7] - The National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE) is facilitating partnerships among industry, federal partners, and local communities to accelerate AAM deployment [9] Technological Advancements - BETA Technologies and Joby Aviation are leveraging advanced aviation technologies to create efficient alternatives to traditional transport methods, focusing on medical cargo delivery [2][3] - Joby Aviation is expanding its manufacturing capacity in Ohio, doubling its footprint to support increased production of aircraft components [14] - The collaboration between Hartzell Propeller and BETA Technologies has led to the development of the first FAA-certified electric aircraft propeller, enhancing the capabilities of AAM aircraft [14]