The implementation of SB867 will affect local governance in terms of zoning and land use authority. Counties, cities, villages, and towns will be required to utilize their authority to ensure reasonable access to vertiports for advanced air mobility operators. Significantly, the bill prohibits local governments from granting exclusive operational rights to specific vertiport owners, thereby promoting an open competitive environment for air mobility service providers. This could lead to changes in how urban planning is approached, especially in areas where vertiports could be developed.
Senate Bill 867, introduced in the 2023-2024 legislative session, focuses on the definition and regulation of vertiports in Wisconsin. Vertiports are described as infrastructure intended for the landing, ground-handling, and takeoff of both crewed and uncrewed vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. The bill mandates that no vertiport can operate for public use without prior approval of its layout by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Furthermore, operations must comply with all relevant FAA standards and regulations pertaining to vertiports.
During discussions, there may have been points of contention regarding the balance of local control versus state oversight. Critics of the bill may argue that it limits local governments’ rights to make decisions regarding land use and public access to vertiports, potentially leading to dissatisfaction among community stakeholders who want to retain control. Furthermore, there are concerns about the implications of increased air traffic and the management of unmanned aircraft systems in urban areas, raising questions about safety, noise, and the environmental impact.
Overall, SB867 seems poised to facilitate the next phase of transportation evolution by legitimizing and creating a framework for vertiports in Wisconsin. As the state moves toward embracing advanced air mobility solutions, ongoing dialogues among legislators, city planners, and industry stakeholders will be essential to resolve concerns and fully realize the operational potential of vertiports.