The bill, H.B. No. 3134, aims to establish a framework for advanced air mobility (AAM) in Texas by amending the Transportation Code. It introduces a new section, 21.073, which defines key terms related to AAM, including "advanced air mobility," "powered lift aircraft," and "vertiport." The bill mandates the Texas Department of Transportation to create an office within its aviation division to support AAM infrastructure, develop a statewide strategic plan, and collaborate with various stakeholders to promote uniform planning and zoning for powered lift and electric aircraft. Additionally, it requires the department to provide educational resources and establish a program for matching funds to support research and development in AAM.
Furthermore, the bill includes a provision that restricts political subdivisions from enacting regulations related to AAM unless they are airport operators and the regulations pertain specifically to operations within their airport boundaries. It also repeals Section 21.072 of the Transportation Code, which may have previously addressed aspects of air mobility. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Transportation Code 21.072 (Transportation Code 21)