Have questions about testing with the FAA Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies (CAAT)? Our FAQ page provides clear answers to our facilities, testing environments, procedures, and participation requirements—helping you find the information you need quickly and easily.
FAQ
CAAT is an FAA-designated national center led by the Texas A&M University System to advance, test, and demonstrate new and emerging aviation technologies. Its mission is to support the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems, advanced air mobility, and powered-lift aircraft into the National Airspace System.
CAAT is managed by the Texas A&M University System, with operational leadership provided by the Autonomy Research Institute at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, in collaboration with academic, government, and industry partners.
CAAT supports testing and research for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), advanced air mobility (AAM), powered-lift aircraft, autonomy and safety systems, and enabling technologies such as UAS Traffic Management (UTM).
CAAT operates across multiple locations in Texas, including an airspace laboratory in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, as well as flight demonstration zones and testing corridors in North Texas and South and Southwest Texas.
Participation is open to qualified partners from industry, academia, and government. Organizations may engage through research collaboration, flight testing, demonstrations, workforce development, or consortium membership.
Safety is central to CAAT’s mission. All activities follow FAA requirements and emphasize risk management, transparency, data-driven validation, and coordination with existing airspace users to ensure safe operations.
CAAT provides high-quality operational data, research findings, and real-world testing insights to help inform FAA certification, policy development, and regulatory decision-making.
Yes. CAAT is committed to preparing the next generation of aviation professionals through hands-on research opportunities, training programs, academic partnerships, and student engagement.
Organizations can get involved by joining the CAAT Consortium, partnering on research or testing projects, or collaborating on workforce development initiatives. Visit the Contact Us page to connect with the CAAT team.
For more information, explore the CAAT website or reach out through the Contact Us page. Our team is happy to help guide you to the appropriate resources.
Contact Info
Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies
801 Cherry Street, Suite 850, Fort Worth, TX 76102