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The US aerospace industry charts a bold course to unlock a $38B opportunity.
The future of global aviation took center stage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a high-level US trade delegation successfully completed a groundbreaking advanced air mobility (AAM) mission, opening doors to a potential $38B industry. Led by the USSaudi Business Council (USSBC), NUAIR and NEXA Capital Partners, the mission positioned the US as a premier partner in Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 agenda, securing vital connections for American aerospace companies in the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding AAM sector. More than a dozen US companies joined the mission in person to Jeddah and Riyadh on Feb. 3–6, and another 20 participated virtually.
A Transformative Opportunity
With Saudi Arabia setting the stage to become the regional leader in AAM, the mission brought together over a dozen US aerospace companies specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, low-altitude air traffic management, vertiport infrastructure and advanced avionics. As the Kingdom accelerates its push toward high-tech mobility solutions, American companies stand to benefit from Saudi Arabia’s significant government backing and investment in futuristic transportation systems.
The trade mission provided participants with direct access to high-ranking Saudi government officials, including representatives from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), the Saudi Air Navigation Services (SANS), the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and top aviation sector stakeholders. Discussions underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to making AAM a reality, with key decision-makers expressing strong interest in US expertise, technology and investment.
According to NEXA Capital analysis, the US economy has already invested more than $30B into AAM (including dual-use civil/military programs), far outpacing European counterparts. This financial and technological leadership was a central theme throughout the mission, as American companies demonstrated cutting-edge capabilities that could shape the Kingdom’s AAM ecosystem.
Several US companies engaged in one-on-one meetings with Saudi aviation leaders, showcasing breakthrough innovations in airspace integration, hydrogen-powered flight and resilient communications. The Kingdom’s emphasis on localization, driven by investments from PIF, further strengthened the case for US firms to establish long-term partnerships in Saudi Arabia.
Among the major takeaways from the trade mission were:
- Market Potential: The AAM ecosystem in Saudi Arabia is projected to generate $38B in economic opportunities by 2040, spanning infrastructure, aircraft manufacturing, air traffic management and operational services.
- Strategic Partnerships: Saudi stakeholders signaled strong intent to collaborate with US firms, leveraging American AAM advancements to develop a robust and sustainable aviation infrastructure.
- Regulatory and Investment Discussions: The Saudi government, in coordination with the US delegation, explored pathways for regulatory harmonization, ensuring AAM operations align with both US Fderal Aviation Administration (FAA) and GACA standards.
- European Influence Challenged: European firms have already established a foothold in Saudi Arabia’s AAM discussions. However, this mission significantly raised the visibility of US companies, offering a competitive alternative with greater investment backing and regulatory expertise.
Looking Ahead: A Pivotal Year for US-Saudi AAM Cooperation
With Saudi Arabia preparing to make key investment decisions in 2025, US companies have a critical window to solidify their presence in the Kingdom’s AAM framework. The USSBC, led by President and CEO Charles Hallab, and NEXA Capital, led by the author, are already planning a reverse trade mission, set to bring Saudi officials to the US for deeper engagement with American AAM leaders.
Furthermore, NEXA will produce a series of white papers outlining strategies for US and Canadian firms to expand their access to the market, ensuring a structured roadmap for collaboration and investment. The next step is clear: US industry must seize this momentum to cement its role as the cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s AAM revolution. The success of this trade mission proves that the future of aviation is being written today, and the US has the opportunity to lead the charge. As Saudi Arabia races toward its Vision 2030 goals, the US aerospace sector can deliver the technology, expertise and innovation necessary to bring AAM to the skies of the Middle East.
About the Author
Michael J. Dyment is the Managing Partner of NEXA Capital Partners, LLC, based in McLean, Virginia. He is a trusted advisor to institutional investors and top management in the aerospace, transportation and finance sectors. Since 2018, NEXA Capital and its subsidiaries, NEXA Advisors and UAM Geomatics, have made major investments in supporting AAM in the United States and around the world.
