In March, the Utah Department of Transportation was announced as the leader of a federal pilot program for the testing of advanced electric aircraft.

“The Federal Aviation Administration, through the U.S. Department of Transportation, selected Utah as one of eight projects nationwide for the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Integration Pilot Program, a three-year initiative designed to help safely integrate advanced aircraft into the national airspace,” a press release on the announcement stated. “Through the initiative known as uFLY, Utah will lead a partnership with Oregon, Idaho, Arizona and Oklahoma, along with industry partners and research institutions, to test new aviation technologies and gather data that will help shape the future of flight in the United States.”

The release notes that industry partners include BETA Technologies, Ampaire, Joby Aviation, Lockheed Martin, Future Flight Global, Alpine Air, Jump Aero and 47G.

“Utah stands ready to help lead the next chapter of American aviation and is uniquely positioned to develop advanced air mobility,” Senate President Stuart Adams said during the March announcement. “With our strong aerospace sector, innovative research institutions and diverse landscape for real-world testing, Utah and our regional partners can help advance these technologies safely and effectively. This effort will accelerate next-generation transportation and position Utah to showcase the future of flight as we welcome the world for the 2034 Winter Olympics.”

Closer to home, Ogden officials are looking at the possibilities for Ogden-Hinckley Airport to do its part in the uFLY program.

In an emailed statement from Ogden City Communications Director Mike McBride, he noted that the airport is positioning itself to stay on top of emerging aviation innovations.

“Through participation in Utah’s uFLY and other available programs, Ogden-Hinckley Airport is helping position the community at the forefront of emerging aviation technologies, including electric aircraft and other advanced air mobility systems,” McBride said. “These innovations have the potential to transform local transportation, cargo delivery, emergency response, and access to rural communities.

By engaging early, the City is taking a thoughtful and measured approach to infrastructure planning, regional partnerships, and long-term economic opportunity.”

In that same statement, Ogden-Hinckley Airport Director Brian Condie said the goal is to prepare responsibly while avoiding premature investment.

“While demand for advanced air mobility is still developing, participation in programs like uFLY allows the City of Ogden to plan ahead and make informed, phased decisions today,” he said. “This positions Ogden to lead as the market matures, without overinvesting too early.”

The statement adds “Ogden-Hinckley Airport continues to work closely with state and federal partners, local industry, neighboring communities, and education and workforce programs to ensure Northern Utah is well positioned to benefit from the next generation of aviation.”