Utah Launches Groundbreaking Air Transportation System

Utah's aerospace and defense association, 47G, in collaboration with the Utah Governor's Office, the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), the Utah Inland Port Authority, and various industry stakeholders, has launched an innovative initiative called "Project Alta."

This project aims to establish an advanced air mobility (AAM) system for Utah, which leverages electric aircraft to transport people and packages safely and efficiently.

Project Alta's mission is to create an integrated air transportation system that seamlessly connects with Utah's existing ground transportation infrastructure. The initiative plans to expand drone package delivery services to more communities, utilize drones for cargo transport, and establish a regional air taxi service by 2034. This development is particularly significant as Utah prepares to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2034, where efficient movement of people and goods will be crucial.

Governor Spencer Cox highlighted Utah's unique attributes—growth, tourism, business opportunities, and natural beauty—as key drivers for this initiative. He emphasized that 47G's efforts to establish statewide air mobility solutions would enhance visitors' access to everything Utah offers. With aerospace, defense, and cyber companies constituting 20% of Utah's economy, Project Alta positions Utah as a leader in the rapidly growing advanced air mobility industry.

Utah is distinguished as one of the few states undertaking a comprehensive, statewide approach to AAM, supported by state and local government, industry, and academia. Forward-thinking policies enacted by Utah legislators have created a regulatory framework that fosters the growth of AAM technologies. This includes the establishment of an "AAM sandbox" by UDOT for safe testing and development. To date, state legislators have allocated over $3 million for AAM initiatives.

Aaron Starks, President and CEO of 47G, stated that Project Alta represents a collaborative, public-private partnership aiming to create the first nationally recognized multi-modal transportation system with air mobility at its core. By leveraging entrepreneurial spirit and cutting-edge technologies, Project Alta seeks to attract investment, develop critical infrastructure, and deploy aircraft that integrate seamlessly into the transportation system.