R&D Consortium & Labs Part Of 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act

U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy (pictured below) announced the establishment of a new Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies, or CAAT, to be led by the Texas A&M System with lab and testing facilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area and other sites across the state.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) praised the announcement, not unexpected since he wrote the provision and championed it in the legislation that was eventually approved as the bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.

The new federal research, development, and testing center will explore advanced and emerging aviation technologies for drones, air taxis, and supersonic and hypersonic aircraft. Texas A&M will lead a consortium consisting of Texas universities, private companies and organizations, and the FAA to advance the development and integration of innovative aviation technologies.

Senator Cruz said, “This is a significant win for Texas that will impact communities across our state, and I will continue to pursue policies that create new jobs and ensure the Lone Star State continues to lead the way in innovation and the manufacturing of emerging aviation technologies.”

Secretary Duffy said, “Texas is the perfect place for our new Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies. Under Senator Cruz’s leadership, the state has already established itself as a leader in commercial drone safety testing. From drones delivering your packages to powered lift technologies like air taxis, we are at the cusp of an aviation revolution. The CAAT will ensure we make that dream a reality and unleash American innovation safely.”

FMI:  www.transportation.gov/