Federal Aviation Administration Unmanned Aircraft Systems (In Progress)

FAA, FAA UAS, UAS

BACKGROUND

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.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

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. This study will focus on the following tasks:

1. Current Partnerships and Scope: The Academy will document and describe the FAA’s existing partnerships and their research areas.
2. Utilization and Impact of Partnerships: The Academy will evaluate the effectiveness and necessity of current and potential future partnerships.
3. Dissemination and Information Sharing: The Academy will assess strategies for effectively sharing research outcomes and data.
4. Inclusivity and Funding Models: The Academy will review strategies for ensuring broad participation and optimal funding structures for the FAA’s partnerships.

Study Fellow(s) Chair

Study Fellows