FAA UAS test site selection a first step toward tremendous growth, more than $82B in first decade, AUVSI says

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) technologies can save time, money, and lives, as well as help to create more than 100,000 jobs in the U.S. and generate more than $82 billion in economic impact in the first decade following integration, says Michael Toscano, president & CEO of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) in Arlington, Va.

Toscano released a statement on the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) selection of six sites around the country for the research, development, and testing of UAS and UAS-related technologies. Toscano’s statement follows:

“Today’s announcement by the FAA is an important milestone on the path toward unlocking the potential of unmanned aircraft. From advancing scientific research and responding to natural disasters to locating missing persons and helping to fight wildfires, UAS can save time, save money, and, most importantly, save lives.

“In designating the first UAS test sites in these states, the FAA has taken an important step toward recognizing the incredible economic and job creation potential this technology brings. AUVSI’s economic report projects that the expansion of UAS technology will create more than 100,000 jobs nationwide and generate more than $82 billion in economic impact in the first decade following integration.

“AUVSI congratulates the University of Alaska, State of Nevada, New York’s Griffiss International Airport, North Dakota Department of Commerce, Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi, and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VA Tech) on their designation and applauds the FAA for meeting the necessary benchmarks to ensure a safe and responsible integration process. Our hope is this will lead to the creation of more sites and eventually to full integration of UAS into our skies, which will help create lasting jobs and boost the U.S. economy.”