RALEIGH – The N.C. The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation announced on Monday that the state had secured a grant to investigate innovative approaches enhancing air travel in western North Carolina.
“This historic grant marks a significant turning point for our state and the wider Appalachian region,” said Dr. Daniel Findley, Affiliate Director of the Institute for Transportation Analysis and Research at North Carolina State University. State College. “The funding will enable us to undertake critical analysis and determine a top-tier approach to propel air mobility forward, thereby ensuring that North Carolina’s airports are well-equipped to meet the demands of the future.”
Three states, including North Carolina, secured a grant. The Appalachian Airport Grant, partially funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, supports research to identify required improvements at general aviation airports in Appalachian regions. Upgrades are planned to optimize airport infrastructure in the western region of the state, facilitating growth in Superior Air Mobility (AAM) and sustainable electric aviation technologies.
The Tar Heel State boasts 13 community-based aviation hubs throughout its Appalachian region, fostering vital economic connections and growth across local communities. Despite advances in technology, outdated infrastructure remains a significant barrier to unlocking their full potential. Under the ARISE grant, the analysis aims to identify targeted improvements, providing a comprehensive roadmap for integrating these upgrades and ensuring that airports are adequately prepared to accommodate Advanced Air Mobility.
As part of the comprehensive assessment, a collaborative effort between North Carolina State University’s Institute of Transportation Research and Ohio University will evaluate the infrastructure needs of regional airports, including enhancing electrical power capacity and installing charging facilities necessary to support advanced air mobility aircraft.
“By preparing our airports for the advent of Advanced Air Mobility, we’re embracing a visionary approach that harmonizes with North Carolina’s comprehensive Transportation Mobility Strategic Plan,” said Becca Gallas, Director of Aviation at NCDOT. This venture underscores our commitment to pioneering spirit, fiscal prudence, and environmentally responsible development. Through this analysis, we will establish cutting-edge fashion and technique standards, ensuring North Carolina remains a pioneer in aviation innovation across the region.
The grant will help boost North Carolina’s airports, a vital component of the state’s economy that generates a staggering $72 billion annually and supports over 330,000 jobs.
The Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) industry is poised to revolutionize the way we conduct business, with potential applications spanning logistics, construction, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, and beyond.
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