Date of Award
5-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Aviation (MSA)
Department
Aeronautics
First Advisor
Meredith Carroll
Second Advisor
Siddhartha Bhattacharyya
Third Advisor
Victoria Dunbar
Fourth Advisor
John E. Deaton
Abstract
The integration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into the national airspace presents new challenges for pilot training that are not adequately addressed by current commercial flight training standards. AAM aircraft, such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, differ significantly from conventional aircraft in terms of design, propulsion, and automation. As a result, pilots will require new training that goes beyond the traditional fixed-wing or rotorcraft training offered under 14 C.F.R. Parts 61 and 141. The current study conducted a gap analysis to evaluate the alignment between current commercial pilot training and AAM's emerging training needs. Deficiencies in current training standards were identified as training gaps, and recommendations were developed to address the gaps. Findings from this research can help standardize AAM pilot training curricula and support educational institutions in preparing the future AAM workforce.
Recommended Citation
Adorno-Oyola, Yarisse, "Bridging the Gap: A Gap Analysis of Commercial Pilot Training and Emerging Advanced Air Mobility Training Needs" (2026). Theses and Dissertations. 1707.
https://repository.fit.edu/etd/1707