AUVSI Applauds the Establishment of Michigan Advanced Air Mobility Initiative 

July 17, 2025

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and AUVSI CEO Michael Robbins pictured together in Detroit, MI, July 17, 2025.

The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) today praised Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Directive 2025-04 establishing the Michigan Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Initiative, a statewide strategy to accelerate the testing, production, and deployment of advanced aviation technologies across the state. 

The directive outlines a coordinated plan led by the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification to scale infrastructure, grow the advanced aviation workforce, and support Michigan-based companies building uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and AAM platforms. The strategy will be implemented in close coordination with the Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and other state agencies. 

“This directive further positions Michigan as a national leader in reindustrialization and integration of advanced aviation technologies,” said Michael Robbins, President & CEO of AUVSI, who met with Governor Whitmer today in Detroit. “From its roots as the Arsenal of Democracy, Michigan has always been a driver of American innovation and industrial might. Today, that legacy continues as Michigan leads the way in building the future of aviation. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, workforce, and procurement, Michigan is creating a secure and competitive AAM ecosystem that supports both public missions and commercial innovation, setting a national model for how states can lead in scaling advanced aviation technologies with safety, resilience, and economic impact.” 

The Michigan AAM Initiative establishes targeted efforts to: 

• Expand FAA-approved corridors for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) AAM operations 
• Enable drone and AAM testing at public, commercial, and defense sites 
• Support state procurement of Michigan-built AAM systems for emergency response, infrastructure inspection, and healthcare logistics 
• Scale production capacity for dual-use drones and AAM components 
• Develop specialized AAM workforce certification programs 

“Michigan has long been a hub for mobility leadership. With this directive, the state is reaffirming its commitment to leading the next era of aviation innovation,” Robbins added. “AUVSI applauds this strategic vision and looks forward to working with Governor Whitmer and Michigan leaders to advance a safe, secure, and scalable AAM future.” 

AUVSI and its members will remain actively engaged in supporting Michigan’s efforts to develop policies, standards, and partnerships that ensure the successful integration of AAM technologies. 

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Media Contact:
Ryan Carver
rcarver@auvsi.org