April 23 (UPI) —
Federal authorities revealed on Wednesday that the FAA’s new Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies (CAAT) will come under the management of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS).
Drones will soon be handling package deliveries, along with advanced aerial vehicles such as flying cars, marking the dawn of a new era in aviation,
stated
U.S. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy.
The Federal Aviation Administration’s CAAT, which is part of the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, “will guarantee that we turn this vision into reality and promote American innovation safely,” said Duffy, who is 53 years old.
In May of last year, President Joe Biden did so.
signed the sweeping
A $105 billion comprehensive bill aimed at enhancing aviation safety and funding airport infrastructure improvements.
The ideal location for our new Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies is Texas,” stated the secretary, noting that the Lone Star State has “emerged as a frontrunner in commercial drone safety testing.
It was among several proposed sites across different states and will encompass research and testing facilities all over Texas.
in the
Dallas-Fort Worth region.
“I am confident that this newly established research and testing facility will aid the private sector in generating thousands of well-paid job opportunities and contribute significantly to the growth of the Texas economy via billions of dollars in fresh investments,” stated Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who authored the provision included in the FAA reauthorization bill establishing the CAAT.
The facilities will also feature an airspace lab, areas for flight demonstrations, and testing pathways.
As stated by authorities, the aim of establishing the CAAT is to concentrate on assessing and ensuring the integration of novel aviation technologies, particularly within their Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) initiative.
Officials from the Department of Transportation indicate that this represents an advancement driven by innovation through cooperation among government entities, academic institutions, and private industries.
Cruz, who is 54 years old, expressed his gratitude for seeing Texas A&M at the forefront of this initiative and for nurturing the next wave of aviation leaders.
TAMUS was ultimately picked to manage the center, according to officials, due to its proximity to major international airports and a FAA regional headquarters, existing infrastructure for advanced aviation technology testing and “strong academic programs and industry partnerships.”
“This represents a major victory for Texas that will affect communities throughout our state,” Cruz went on to say.
