The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), was established by the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (72 Stat. 731). The mission of the FAA is to regulate civil aviation and U.S. commercial space and transportation, maintain and operate air traffic control and navigation systems for both civil and military aircrafts, and develop and administer programs relating to aviation safety and the National Airspace System.
The National Academy of Public Administration was Congressionally requested to conduct this assessment of FAA UAS in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 (H.R. 3935, Section 1045). The overarching objectives in conducting this study are to assess the current state of partnerships for research, development, demonstration, and testing; provide the FAA with recommendations and strategies to more effectively promote the development of unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air mobility; and to ensure the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the safe integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into the National Airspace System (NAS) is crucial for the future of air travel and transportation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is committed to advancing research and fostering partnerships to address critical areas such as complex drone operations and beyond visual line of sight. This report of an Academy Panel of Fellows (Panel) examines multiple partnership programs, including ASSURE, BEYOND, the UAS Broad Agency Announcement, and the UAS Test Sites. Through these programs, the collaborative efforts of industry, academia, and government entities drive innovation and advance the safe integration of UAS and AAM entrants into the NAS. The recommendations in this report highlight how the FAA can continue to maintain aviation safety, improve research partnerships, and emphasize the importance of continued investment in research and development to keep pace with evolving UAS and AAM technologies.
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Final ReportIf you have any questions or comments regarding the study, please contact Brenna Isman, Director of Academy Studies (BIsman@napawash.org).
