Vertiports in Florida Are Cleared for Takeoff – Update from Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.

On April 21, 2026, Governor Ron DeSantis signed CS/CS/CS/HB 1093 into law. Dubbed the “Vertiports Act,” HB 1093 adds vertiports to “airport infrastructure” under Section 332.007 of the Florida Statutes and authorizes the Florida Department of Transportation (“FDOT”) to fund projects for public vertiports. HB 1093 also enables vertiports and charging systems as qualifying projects for funding under public-private partnerships between state and private entities under Section 255.065 of the Florida Statutes.

Vertiports are generally considered by the Federal Aviation Administration as an area of land, water, or structure used, or intended to be used, to support the landing, takeoff, taxiing, parking, and storage of powered-lift aircraft. Vertiports are essential infrastructure that are part of an emerging transportation field known as advanced air mobility (“AAM”) – aircraft that are typically highly automated, electrically powered, and have vertical takeoff and landing capability. In 2025, FDOT issued a Plan of Action for AAM – Florida’s Aerial Highway Network.

The changes to Sections 255.065 and 332.007 of the Florida Statute go into effect July 1, 2026.

If you have questions about vertiports, advanced air mobility, or other airport infrastructure in Florida reach out to LLW’s Transportation and Infrastructure Practice Group Chair Fred Aschauer, or Vice-Chair, Nick Bixler.