Center for Advanced Air Mobility
Photo: Pivotal Helix is a single-seat eVTOL designed for the FAA’s Part 103 ultralight category, demo aircraft at eVTOL show, Palo Alto, CA, Nov 2024
Purpose
The aviation industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, autonomous aerial systems, and sustainable air mobility solutions. As a forward-thinking institution committed to innovation and academic excellence, Delaware State University (DESU) advances this mission through the Center for Advanced Air Mobility (CAAM).
CAAM serves as a multidisciplinary hub dedicated to pioneering research, industry collaboration, and workforce development in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). By partnering with aerospace organizations, government agencies, and private-sector leaders, CAAM fosters innovation and real-world applications of AAM technologies. Additionally, CAAM enhances the university’s academic programs, expands research opportunities, and positions DESU as a leader in next-generation aviation advancements.
Vision
To be a premier academic and research center in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), shaping the future of sustainable, autonomous, and integrated aviation.
Mission
To advance knowledge and innovation in AAM through interdisciplinary research, workforce development, industry collaboration, and policy advocacy.
Objectives
- Conduct fundamental, behavioral, and applied research in AAM technologies, autonomy, pilot behavior, air traffic management, infrastructure, and economic development.
- Develop educational programs, courses, and certifications to train the next generation of AAM professionals.
- Forge strategic partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and regulatory bodies to drive technological innovation and policy advancements.
- Support commercialization and technology transfer of AAM innovations through incubators, entrepreneurship initiatives, and startup support.
Areas of focus
- Vertiport Planning & Infrastructure – Site selection, sustainable energy solutions, and infrastructure development.
- eVTOL & Drone Simulations – Advanced modeling and simulation for operational efficiency and safety.
- Ground & Airspace Integration – Seamless coordination between urban air mobility and existing transportation networks.
- Pilot Training & Workforce Development – Preparing the next generation of AAM professionals through specialized programs.
- Public Acceptance & Community Integration – Research on societal adoption, noise concerns, and economic impact.
- AAM Feasibility & Policy Development – Establishing regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and national/state roadmaps for AAM adoption.
- Interdisciplinary Applications – Collaborations with urban planners, architects, real estate developers, and stakeholders in the civil and military sectors.