Embry-Riddle Researching Training for the Advanced Air Mobility Era

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is preparing for the arrival of advanced air mobility by researching how pilots, infrastructure and education will need to evolve as electric aircraft enter service.

Speaking to CAT at the Farnborough International Airshow, Embry-Riddle President Dr Barry Butler said the university is working with the State of Florida on projects covering airspace integration, infrastructure, safety and education for the emerging sector.

"The State of Florida is investing heavily in advanced air mobility and we're working on projects covering airspace corridors, infrastructure, safety and education."

While aircraft certification remains the immediate focus for manufacturers, Butler said universities must prepare now for the skills future operators will require.

"The training will always have fundamental elements. Procedures, professionalism and safety transcend whether you're flying a Cessna or an advanced air mobility aircraft."

Rather than developing courses for specific aircraft before certification, Embry-Riddle is focusing on research to understand how training should evolve and provide evidence for future regulatory decisions.

The university is also studying passenger acceptance, operational concepts and the wider business case for advanced air mobility alongside pilot training.

"We stay in close contact with industry so we know what's coming and what their needs are. We modify our curriculum to meet that demand so our graduates can step straight into the workforce."

Butler said the university sees advanced air mobility as part of a broader evolution in aviation education, with institutions needing to anticipate future industry needs rather than react to them.

"We embrace what's next. Whether that's training pilots, educating engineers or supporting the business side of advanced air mobility, we want to be ready."