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Advanced Air Mobility could reshape the way South East Queensland moves over the coming decades, with a new regional blueprint pointing to faster hospital access, stronger emergency response and new tourism opportunities that could benefit coastal communities across the region, including areas such as Redcliffe.
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The Advanced Air Mobility: New Opportunities for SEQ outlines how electric aircraft, including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, could complement existing transport networks while supporting healthcare, business and economic growth.
Developed with Arup, South East Queensland officials and industry representatives, the report estimated that the emerging sector could create more than 4,600 permanent jobs and contribute $3.7 billion to the regional economy by 2045.
The vision extends across South East Queensland, with Advanced Air Mobility expected to improve connectivity between communities while supporting faster access to healthcare, strengthening emergency response capabilities and opening new opportunities for tourism. The report also highlights the technology’s potential to better connect urban centres, rural towns, islands and destinations across the region, including natural assets such as Ramsar-listed Moreton Bay.
Faster connections beyond the road network
South East Queensland’s population is expected to reach around six million by 2046, placing growing pressure on existing transport infrastructure. The report argues Advanced Air Mobility could become another option within the transport network, helping move people and services more efficiently while improving resilience during emergencies.
Council of Mayors (SEQ) Deputy Chair and City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the technology presents an opportunity to strengthen connections across the region.
“Advanced Air Mobility gives South East Queensland a chance to connect our region, from urban centres to rural towns, islands and natural assets like Ramsar-listed Moreton Bay.
“As our region continues to grow, AAM offers cleaner, faster and more efficient ways to move people and services while strengthening the industries that make SEQ unique.
“This is a once-in-a generation opportunity for our region, and we’re ready for lift-off.”
The report also points to opportunities for tourism, suggesting low-emission aircraft could improve access to destinations that are difficult or time-consuming to reach by road. For communities bordering Moreton Bay, the technology could provide another transport option alongside existing travel networks.
Building for the future
Healthcare is another major focus. The report says advanced aircraft could improve access to healthcare services and reduce travel times for some communities. Emergency response, disaster recovery and the delivery of essential services are also identified as potential applications.
The report stresses that the technology is still emerging and that widespread adoption will depend on careful planning, regulation and community engagement.
Electric aircraft are expected to produce zero direct emissions during operation, with further environmental benefits when powered by renewable energy. Beyond passenger transport, the report says the aircraft could support environmental monitoring, including bushfire surveillance, water quality monitoring and wildlife management.
South East Queensland’s aviation history, combined with preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, places the region in a strong position to explore the technology, according to the report.
However, the authors say success will rely on coordinated work between regulators, governments, industry, infrastructure providers and local communities. Investment in infrastructure, workforce skills and long-term planning will also be needed before Advanced Air Mobility becomes part of everyday life.
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For now, the report outlines opportunities and priorities for future planning rather than announcing specific projects. As South East Queensland continues to grow, it suggests Advanced Air Mobility could play an increasing role in improving healthcare access, supporting tourism and strengthening essential services.
Published 4-August-2026
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