vertiports; design; zoning

SB 1819 requires Arizona's Department of Transportation to create a statewide plan for vertiports (vertically taking off airports) and electric aircraft charging stations by 2026, consulting with airports, airlines, and federal agencies. It designates a department expert to assist local governments and mandates that all new vertiport and charging station projects must be publicly bid with no preference for existing operators. The bill directly affects local governments, airports, and future operators of electric aircraft infrastructure by setting planning and procurement standards. It does not change existing safety rules but establishes a process for developing advanced air mobility infrastructure. The bill focuses on planning and project selection, not on regulating operations or funding.