In this insightful episode of the Women in AAM podcast, host Marilyn Pearson sits down with Amber Harrison, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Vertical Aviation International and a commercially rated helicopter pilot.

With her unique blend of legal, operational, and aviation experience, Amber brings clarity to one of the most consequential regulatory developments affecting the future of drones and advanced air mobility (AAM): the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule.

Amber breaks down why Part 108 represents a major shift for beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations and how it will shape the integration of unmanned systems into low-altitude airspace. She explains the proposed framework for aircraft acceptance, maintenance, controller training, and third-party UTM oversight—highlighting how Part 108 moves the industry closer to scalable, autonomous operations.

One of the most talked-about elements, Amber notes, is the proposed right-of-way hierarchy, which for the first time suggests unmanned aircraft may have priority over crewed aircraft under certain conditions. She explores why this creates operational complexity for pilots, regulators, and manufacturers—especially when population density maps, equipage requirements, and ADS-B/EC technology limitations are factored in.

The discussion also dives into grey areas between drones and autonomous aircraft, raising essential questions about certification weight limits, governance, and future rulemaking for autonomy. Amber shares how VAI is advocating for a phased, safety-driven approach that acknowledges current technology gaps while supporting industry growth.