New Jersey is betting its claim as the forefront of advanced aviation and aerospace technology. Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), National Aerospace Research and Technology Park (NARTP), and Applied Research Associates, Inc. Through collaboration with (ARA), the state's only officially designated aviation district is being fought by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for a $140 million investment in CAAT (CAAT).
The partnership highlights New Jersey's commitment to promoting and solidifying its place as an innovative aerospace hub.
Vision of Aviation Innovation
“New Jersey continues to lead the way in which aviation innovations and create opportunities to define the future of this important industry,” said ACEA president Lauren Moore.
New Jersey's CAAT proposals include initiatives such as Airspace Laboratory Management, flight demonstration zone development, and testing scope. These projects will integrate the FAA's mission to increase airspace safety and efficiency while integrating drones, as well as advanced airspace mobility (AAM, Flying Cars) into the National Airspace System (NAS) infrastructure.
Why New Jersey stands out
New Jersey offers unparalleled benefits for housing CAATs.
Strategic Location: This site is adjacent to the internationally acclaimed William J. Hughes Technical Center of Advanced Aerospace, the FAA's only research and development centre. World-class infrastructure: Advanced labs, collaborative testing environments and workforce development initiatives provide a strong foundation. Proximity of major facilities: close to major population centres and airports, aviation manufacturers, and diverse urban and rural testing areas. Co-ecosystems: Extensive public-private partnerships with major industry, academic and governmental institutions.
NARTP president Howard Kyle expressed confidence that state relationships and expertise will surpass the requirements of the FAA and enhance competitiveness. “This opportunity highlights New Jersey's commitment to innovation and collaboration in the advanced aviation sector. Through extensive expertise and strategic partnerships, we are poised to deliver unparalleled value to the FAA,” Kyle said.
Collaboration Driving Advanced Aviation
The CAAT project thrives in partnerships that integrate academia, industrial and government expertise. Notable contributors include:
Universities such as Rutgers University, Drexel University, Rowan University, Stockton University, and Wichita State University Institute of Aviation (NIAR). Industry leaders such as AeCom, Quecon, Woolpert, IRG and more. Air stakeholders such as Atlantic City International Airport and Cape May Airport.
This diverse coalition ensures a progressive approach to aviation challenges and opportunities.
Additional Leadership from Applied Research Associates
ARA has over 2,000 employees and $700 million annual revenues, and will serve as a trusted leader in program management if CAAT is allocated to NARTP. Engineering and research expertise ensures operational excellence.
“The proposal highlights the partnership's ability to innovate and integrate key aviation technologies,” said Richard Spair, Vice President of ARA. ARAs can help you address current challenges for AAM while shaping the future.
Testing and advancement of new and emerging technologies
The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 directs FAA administrators to establish a CAAT by September 30, 2026, based on eight criteria. The Southern New Jersey consortium is positioned to meet or exceed these standards and help to play a leading role in furthering the development of drones and AAM technologies.
About Key Players
The Atlantic County Economic Union (ACEA) supports regional economic growth and business development opportunities. www.aceanj.com National Aerospace Research and Technology Park (NARTP) is a major centre of aerospace cooperation and progress. www.nartp.com Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is a globally recognized leader in aviation, defense, and infrastructure research and engineering solutions. www.ara.com
