Mississippi lays welcome mat to FAA for UAV research

Mississippi has laid out a proposed welcome mat for the Federal Aviation Administration to choose the ‘Magnolia State’ - over 36 others – for its experience, existing facilities and available air space to conduct congressionally-mandated, non-commercial researchers to integrate air traffic testing for unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). The state submitted its proposal May 6. The state boasts of aerospace firms working in the arena – Northrop Grumman’s Moss Point assembly plant; Stark Aerospace and Aurora Flight Sciences near Columbus; Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory in Starkville; Stennis Space Center; and Camp Shelby's decade of experience in safely operating drones. Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International estimates the UAV industry could lead to more than 70,000 jobs in the first three years after the FAA allows commercial operations. Source: The Associated Press, May 7, 2013.