This bill amends existing Florida statutes to include provisions related to vertiports, which are designated areas for vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. It revises the definition of "qualifying project" to explicitly include "vertiports and charging systems" as eligible for public-private partnerships. Additionally, the definition of "airport infrastructure" is updated to encompass vertiport pads, safety zones, charging systems, grid upgrades, and resilience energy systems. These changes aim to facilitate the development and maintenance of vertiports as part of the state's aviation infrastructure.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Florida Department of Transportation to fund up to 100% of the project costs for public vertiports when federal funds are not available, and up to 80% of the nonfederal share when federal funds are accessible. This financial support is intended to encourage the establishment of vertiports and enhance the state's aviation capabilities. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1362 Filed: 255.065, 332.007
S 1362 c1: 255.065, 332.007
S 1362 c2: 255.065, 332.007