The eVTOL Insights Podcast

In this episode of the eVTOL Insights Podcast, Jason Pritchard speaks with Melissa Rank, Aviation Market Leader and Programme Director at SAM, about the foundations needed to support advanced air mobility. Drawing on her experience in geospatial technology and aviation, Melissa explains why closer collaboration with critical infrastructure owners is essential as drone operations expand into low-altitude airspace. She discusses her engagement with the rail industry and highlights the distinction between organisations operating drones themselves and preparing for third-party flights around their assets. The conversation explores how accurate mapping, current data and shared operational awareness can support safer integration, alongside the risks of developing aviation rules without sufficient engagement beyond the sector. Melissa also considers emerging applications, from disaster response to connecting remote communities, and shares a clear message: scaling AAM requires strong infrastructure, public trust and early dialogue with the industries and communities that will share its operating environment.

In this episode of the eVTOL Insights Podcast, we speak with Ted Angel, Executive Director of the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE), ahead of the National Advanced Air Mobility Industry Forum in Springfield, Ohio, on October 15. Ted explains how the forum has evolved to address the challenges of moving from aircraft demonstrations to production and everyday operations. We explore its interactive workshops, covering infrastructure, digital systems and community engagement, alongside discussions on the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, defence applications and workforce development. He also shares updates from NAAMCE, including Electra’s planned manufacturing presence and how the facility helps companies build, test and fly in one location. The conversation concludes with a look at the accompanying STEM Day and Great American Electric Air Race, highlighting why inspiring future talent and building public trust are essential to the next chapter of Advanced Air Mobility in Ohio.

What can drones teach us about the future of Advanced Air Mobility? In this episode of the Women in AAM Podcast, Miriam McNabb joins chairperson Marilyn Pearson to explore the opportunities, challenges and practical benefits shaping aviation’s next chapter. From inspecting hazardous infrastructure to delivering lifesaving medical supplies, Miriam explains why the industry’s value extends far beyond takeaway deliveries. The conversation examines the complexities of building resilient US supply chains, including battery components, rare earth materials and manufacturing expertise. Miriam also shares her optimism about regulatory progress, highlighting how flight trials and operational data can support safe integration. Together, they discuss the complementary roles of crewed and uncrewed aircraft, alongside the information sharing needed to accommodate increasingly diverse airspace users. Offering a grounded perspective on an evolving sector, this episode explores why progress takes time—and why drones and AAM deserve greater recognition for the everyday benefits they can ultimately deliver.

What will it take to power the next generation of aviation? In this episode, Jason Pritchard speaks with Jerome Tourdiat of Schneider Electric about the energy infrastructure needed to turn Advanced Air Mobility ambitions into scalable commercial operations. Drawing on the company’s experience supporting airports and critical infrastructure, Jerome explores why vertiports must become intelligent energy hubs. He discusses how microgrids, battery storage and smart charging can help manage peak demand, strengthen resilience and control costs. The conversation also examines the role of data and digital technologies in coordinating operations, alongside the importance of designing infrastructure that can grow with demand. With grid connections, permitting and competition for electricity potentially creating bottlenecks, Jerome explains why energy planning needs to start early. Listen to discover why the foundations of electric flight extend beyond the aircraft, and how closer collaboration could help unlock the industry’s commercial potential.

In this episode, host Jason Pritchard speaks with Doug Washburn, Vice President of Engineering and Flight Safety at Hartzell Propeller. Doug highlights how Hartzell’s century of aviation heritage—specifically its certification expertise and high-volume production capacity—supports the emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and eVTOL sectors. The conversation focuses on complex engineering challenges, such as transition loading, extreme weight sensitivity, and noise reduction. Doug notes that minimizing noise relies heavily on larger propeller diameters rotating at slower tip speeds, alongside advanced blade geometries. He emphasizes the critical need for early collaboration between propeller manufacturers, electric motor developers, and aircraft OEMs to optimize overall system efficiency and packaging. Doug also discusses regulatory progress, digital engineering, and Hartzell's work with partners like Beta Technologies. He identifies infrastructure, airspace management, and public acceptance as key hurdles for the industry over the next five years.