The University of Central Florida (UCF) has secured a $750,000 grant from NASA to investigate the implications of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) on local communities. This initiative, in partnership with Ocala International Airport, aims to assess the potential effects of air taxis on pollution and noise levels in surrounding neighborhoods.
Research Focus on Community Impact
UCF researchers, led by Pegasus Professor Subith Vasu and postdoctoral scholar Justin Urso, are focusing their study on the air traffic in the Ocala region. Vasu emphasizes the importance of understanding how increased air traffic could affect the quality of life for residents. “Anything that flies makes noise, and it can be annoying for residents. We’re looking at how to minimize the risk so the community isn’t bothered,” he stated.
The partnership with Ocala International Airport is strategic, given its potential to serve as a hub for AAM technology. The airport is being considered for the construction of vertiports, specialized launch facilities for electric air vehicles like drones and air taxis. Companies such as Amazon are already exploring AAM for efficient delivery services, while NASA aims to establish a safe and effective air transportation system for both goods and passengers.
Future of Air Travel in Florida
Vasu highlights the need for improved transportation options in the Ocala area, particularly for long-distance flights. “If you live in Ocala and want to take a flight to Europe, California, or New York, where do you go? The Tampa and Orlando airports are two hours away by car. Depending on where you live, AAM can be very helpful,” he explained.
Urso predicts that a vertiport could be operational at Ocala International Airport by 2035. This development aligns with broader efforts to create an air transportation plan in collaboration with NASA. Vasu notes that there are possibilities for future expansions to include Orlando International Airport as well.
Another key contributor to this project is Yingru Li, a sociology professor at UCF, who will conduct community assessments to gather vital data about Ocala. Vasu aims to position UCF as a leader in the AAM sector, stating, “There’s a lot of opportunity within AAM for UCF and the state of Florida. We just want to push UCF as a leader in that field.”
The collaboration between UCF, NASA, and Ocala International Airport signifies a proactive approach to understanding the complexities of advanced air travel while considering the needs and concerns of local communities. As AAM technology continues to evolve, this research could play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation in Florida and beyond.
