Vertical Aviation International (VAI) championed the vertical flight industry’s perspective in a recent report to Congress on aerospace supply chain resilience. Congress requested the report from the Aerospace Supply Chain Resiliency Task Force, which VAI served on, to identify and assess risks to US aerospace supply chains. The report included the availability of raw materials and critical manufactured goods for key aerospace products; to evaluate risks to airspace infrastructure; and to recommend best practices to strengthen the US aerospace supply chain.

“VAI is honored to represent the global vertical aviation industry in this critical initiative,” says Chris Martino, VAI’s senior director of operations. “The report underscores the need for global cooperation, technological innovation, and workforce development, all of which are essential for the future resilience of not only vertical aviation but the aerospace industry as a whole.”

The task force’s report highlights several key areas that will shape the future of the aerospace supply chain, with technological advancements being a driving force for innovation and efficiency. Modernizing infrastructure and deploying new technologies will be crucial to meeting the evolving needs of vertical aviation, especially as advanced air mobility and electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft enter service.

Equally important will be the development of a skilled workforce. With the aviation industry experiencing workforce shortages and increased demand for specialized expertise, investment in education, training, and recruitment will continue to be essential to build a talented workforce ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow and support a resilient aerospace supply chain.

The report further highlights the importance of international partnerships to maintaining the resilience and integrity of the aerospace supply chain, which operates as a complex, interconnected global system. Collaborative efforts across the globe will enable the alignment of resources, regulatory standards, and technological advancements, ensuring the aerospace industry can adapt to challenges and remain robust in an increasingly interconnected world.