CORPUS CHRISTI CHOSEN AS DRONE TESTING LEADERS — Becoming a drone testing developer could mean an economic surge of $260 million and 1,200 new jobs in the Corpus Christi area, say economic experts. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi has been assigned as the headquarters of drone research in the state by the Federal Aviation Administration. (FAA). Eleven Texas test sites will work to develop drones for commercial use, something the FAA does not currently allow.
“We are proud to be a part of this historic moment in aviation history,” said University President Flavius Killebrew.
The other test sites appointed by the FAA are:
- University of Alaska
- State of Nevada
- Griffiss International Airport in New York
- North Dakota’s Department of Congress
- Virginia’s Polytechnic Institute and State University
The testing sites will collect information on how to best use this technology in business and government. Drones are expected to be integrated into the general airspace by September 2015, using the data collected from the test sites. Some 7,500 licensed drones could be aloft within fives years, says the FAA.
Drones can be used to pinpoint wildfires, find missing persons and respond to natural disasters. The technology is expected to save time, money, manpower and lives. Business applications could include delivery of goods. Amazon.com has been investigating using drones for package distribution.
“Texas has a long and distinguished history in the aerospace industry, and this test site is an important opportunity to create jobs and grow the industry in our state,” Texas Gov. Rick Perry said in a statement.
