WASHINGTON - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is inviting input to help the agency shape the development of its Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies (CAAT), a hub designed to accelerate the integration of advanced air mobility (AAM) and other emerging aviation technologies into the National Airspace System (NAS).
CAAT's mission will focus on research, testing, and partnerships that address the regulatory, technical, and operational challenges associated with new aviation technologies, including powered-lift aircraft and autonomous systems.
One of its main tasks is establishing an airspace laboratory and flight demonstration zones to test and validate AAM operations and technologies. These facilities will serve as controlled environments to ensure new aviation concepts meet safety and performance standards.
Another focus is the creation of testing corridors designed to evaluate air traffic control (ATC) requirements, operational procedures, and performance standards for AAM integration. These corridors will allow for live and simulated testing of innovative aviation systems.
The CAAT will also foster partnerships among industry leaders, academic institutions, and government agencies. These collaborations aim to advance the development and implementation of aviation technologies, including electric- and hydrogen-powered aircraft and autonomous systems.
In addition to these activities, the CAAT will support research on innovative aviation concepts, such as high-volume urban air mobility (UAM) operations and other advanced technologies. This research will address regulatory and technical challenges that may currently hinder these concepts' adoption.
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The FAA plans to use the CAAT to assess complex scenarios, including high-traffic AAM operations and the integration of advanced air mobility systems. Simulations and live demonstrations, involving piloted, remotely piloted, and autonomous aircraft, will be conducted in designated zones to ensure their safe operation.
The FAA is seeking participation from communities and organizations with strong aeronautical infrastructure. Areas with large commercial airports or air logistics centers are of particular interest, as are those with advanced aviation manufacturing expertise and existing FAA facilities or research activities.
The agency is also prioritizing locations that offer access to diverse environments, including urban and rural areas, as these are crucial for testing the operational flexibility of AAM technologies. Academic institutions with advanced aviation programs and public/private partnerships in aviation technology development are strongly encouraged to contribute.
The FAA says responses must be submitted by 6:00 P.M. EST on 6 January 2025, to Chersharon King, who can be reached via email at [email protected]. Additional information, including documentation, is available at https://sam.gov/opp/3285a5f0e7b342cd9a83e0d4ad0a9c94/view.
Jamie Whitney
Jamie Whitney joined the staff of Military & Aerospace Electronics and Intelligent Aerospace. He brings seven years of print newspaper experience to the aerospace and defense electronics industry.
Whitney oversees editorial content for the Intelligent Aerospace Website, as well as produce news and features for Military & Aerospace Electronics, attend industry events, produce Webcasts, oversee print production of Military & Aerospace Electronics, and expand the Intelligent Aerospace and Military & Aerospace Electronics franchises with new and innovative content.
