Senator David Farnsworth, who leads the Senate Appropriations & Transportation Committee in Arizona, is pushing for new legislation in the 2026 session to promote advanced air mobility while safeguarding cities from monopolies that could dominate future transportation networks.
Farnsworth is working with a range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, city officials, and aviation experts. Meetings are being held every two weeks to help make Arizona a leader in emerging travel technologies. The legislative proposals focus on integrating vertiports and autonomous air systems into the state’s infrastructure. Local governments would retain authority over decisions regarding these new facilities, aiming to foster economic growth and prevent monopolistic practices.
The planned initiatives would allow cities across the Phoenix metropolitan area to independently develop vertiports and vertistops—landing areas for vertical takeoff aircraft—without being restricted by exclusive development or landing rights. The emphasis is on open competition, local empowerment, and sustainability as key principles guiding Arizona’s preparations for future transportation innovations.
“I warmly invite all industry leaders, aviation innovators, and community advocates to share their valuable insights with my office as we develop this important legislation,” said Senator Farnworth. “Advanced air mobility holds exciting potential to transform transportation for everyone in Arizona. To fully harness this opportunity, it’s crucial to cultivate a competitive environment that discourages monopolies. Together, we can build a collaborative future, ensuring that innovation thrives, and no single company overshadows the incredible advancements ahead. This approach is essential for embracing innovation and establishing vertiport systems that will drive the next wave of economic growth. I look forward to announcing the bill language in the near future once it has been refined.”
Warren Petersen was elected as a Republican state senator representing Arizona’s 14th District in 2023 following David Gowan’s tenure.
