A Markov Chain-Based Methodology for Prioritizing Statewide Funding for Airport and Vertiport Infrastructure in the Electrified Aviation Economy

Summary

This proposal outlines a data-driven methodology that uses Markov Chains and Markov Decision Processes (MDPs) to help U.S. states prioritize funding for airport infrastructure improvements and new vertiport developments.

The focus is on identifying underserved or economically disadvantaged airports that need support to participate in the emerging electrified aviation economy — including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and regional electrified fixed-wing operations. By modeling aviation networks as stochastic processes, the approach predicts long-term utilization probabilities, quantifies network imbalances, and optimizes new infrastructure placements with equity, economic viability, and sustainability in view.

A companion justification reviews related work on Markov Chains, MDPs, and vertiport siting, and explains why this equity-focused, statewide funding framing is distinct from existing operational applications.

Who it’s for

• State DOT aviation offices
• Airport & vertiport sponsors
• NPIAS / GA airports
• State & regional planners
• Research & grant partners