Michigan airport ready to participate in drone research

ALPENA, Mich. (AP) — Officials say unmanned aircraft could soon begin flying at a Michigan airport as part of a drone research effort.

The Alpena News reports that the Federal Aviation Administration agreed to allow the flights at Alpena County Regional Airport. County Commissioner Cam Habermehl says things are in place for flights when those involved in the project are ready.

Griffiss International Airport, a former Air Force Base in central New York, is teaming with the Northern Michigan Unmanned Aerial Systems Consortium to develop standards for integrating unmanned systems into national airspace and for civilian use.

Griffiss is aligned with the Northeast UAS Airspace Integration Research Alliance, a nonprofit coalition of private industry, academic institutions and the military. They’ve been working to operate and manage drone test sites in some other states.