Vertiports to provide green, high-speed, affordable transportation services to connect Florida’s major cities
Miami (February 18 2021) – AECOM, the world’s premier infrastructure consulting firm, and Ferrovial, a global leading infrastructure operator, have partnered to design a network of vertiports connecting strategic locations in major Florida cities. Vertiports are a key component in enabling innovation in electric aircraft that take off and land vertically (eVTOL) by providing the necessary infrastructure for landing, recharging, and departure.
“We are excited to work with Ferrovial on the design of this vertiport network that exemplifies the future of air mobility. It is important for us that the design of the vertiport infrastructure reflects the innovative nature of the eVTOL crafts while creating a warm, welcoming environment,” said Elisabeth Bernitt, Senior Vice President and Managing Principal with AECOM’s Buildings + Places business. “By incorporating flexible and modular elements our partners will be able to scale the vertiports with growth, permitting an efficient space that allows for future innovation while emphasizing the passenger experience.”
Ferrovial is partnering with Lilium in developing the Florida vertiport network. Lilium is an aviation company focused on creating an emissions-free, regional air mobility service. The Ferrovial and AECOM-designed vertiport infrastructure will help enable a high-speed, environmentally friendly, affordable alternative transport system connecting Florida’s cities in new, sustainable, and more convenient ways.
“We are very happy to continue our long-lasting partnership with AECOM and join forces again in our vision to develop sustainable infrastructure. AECOM’s design capabilities in mobility solutions will help us to transform this revolutionary concept into a life-changing experience for the vertiports users.” said Luis Alvargonzalez, Ferrovial Airports Corporate Development Director.
The vertiport infrastructure emphasizes sustainability and efficiency, taking advantage of sunlight and natural elements. Noise abatement materials and surfaces are a key feature of the airfield design in order to further reduce the already ultra-low noise emissions from the eVTOL jets. In addition, the terminal buildings at the vertiports will provide a user-friendly passenger experience by enabling touchless processes, quick journeys, and a comfortable environment.
About AECOM
AECOM is the world’s premier infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle – from planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical expertise and innovation, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of $13.2 billion in fiscal year 2020. See how we deliver what others can only imagine at aecom.com and @AECOM.
About Ferrovial
Ferrovial, a leading global infrastructure operator, is committed to developing sustainable solutions. It is a member of Spain’s blue-chip IBEX 35 index and an industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index; it is part of FTSE4Good and the Carbon Disclosure Project, and all its operations are conducted in compliance with the principles of the UN Global Compact, which the company adopted in 2002. For more information visit www.ferrovial.com.
Ferrovial serves a world on the move. The company has earned a reputation as a leading infrastructure investor and operator, dedicated to developing sustainable solutions throughout the lifecycle of a project with an integrated approach, taking advantage of its business units’ synergies. Ferrovial currently manages $10 billion in assets in the United States. Ferrovial Airports have been part of the aviation industry since 1998 and have more than 20 years of experience investing, developing and operating 33 airports around the world, including the United States, Australia or Chile. The current portfolio in the United Kingdom consists of four airports. With a 25% stake, Ferrovial is the largest shareholder and industrial partner in Heathrow Airport, the busiest hub in Europe (pre-COVID data). It also holds a 50% stake in the Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Southampton airports.
Ferrovial recently launched its new open innovation platform, Foresight to explore the future of transportation infrastructure and mobility. Foresight is a digital space to create together within the innovation ecosystem alongside clients, startups and other agents in the sector for a better future with a long-term vision. Foresight serves as a meeting point to collaborate in new projects and exchange knowledge about new trends and technologies.
Media Contact:
Rachel Weiss, Senior Communications Manager
(212) 708-6746
rachel.weiss@aecom.com