#United States #Austin #SkyGrid #FAA #Advanced Air Mobility

SkyGrid Gains FAA Task Order for Advanced Air Mobility

Introduction
In a significant move for the future of aviation, SkyGrid, a provider specializing in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), has received Task Order 1: Cooperative Separation Evaluation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This initiative is part of the newly established Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies (CAAT) housed at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC). SkyGrid was selected as one of the three service providers aimed at progressing urban air mobility (UAM) and ensuring enhanced airspace services through simulations, concept evaluations, and the establishment of operational standards.

Project Overview
Set to run until February 2027, Task Order 1 focuses on developing and validating the Concept of Use (ConUse) capabilities, as well as the system architecture for cooperative separation in AAM. This undertaking is built on the FAA’s UAM Concepts of Operations version 2.0, which aims to gather analytical evidence and operational data essential for the future adjustments of global aviation protocols and standards.

Using existing frameworks, SkyGrid will demonstrate efficient automated separation functions tailored for AAM operations. These advancements in automation will allow for a more systematic and strategic approach towards managing air traffic, particularly in urban settings where the demand for scalable operations is set to rise dramatically.

Expert Insights
Marcus Johnson, the Head of Research and Development at SkyGrid and Chair of the CAAT Third-Party Services Working Group, stated, "This award signifies a pivotal moment in how cooperative separation will function at an extended scale. Our aim is to highlight the potential of delegated separation functions while evaluating revolutionary automation models in collaboration with the FAA and CAAT partners. We take pride in facilitating the nationwide effort to safely modernize airspace usage."

This emphasis on safe operational procedures aligns with the collaborative efforts between SkyGrid and TAMU-CC’s Autonomy Research Institute, which is recognized as an FAA-designated test site for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The partnership combines research and operational expertise aimed at advancing the standards and evaluation processes related to cooperative separation.

The Importance of CAAT
The CAAT initiative is a groundbreaking effort designed to streamline the integration of upcoming technological advancements into the National Airspace System. According to Michael Sanders, Assistant Vice President and Executive Director of the Autonomy Research Institute at TAMU-CC, SkyGrid's prowess in automation and simulation enhances the mission of CAAT — incorporating fresh aircraft technologies and operational methodologies safely and transparently.

Moreover, SkyGrid's commitment extends beyond this singular task order. The company has been designated as Co-Chair for the CAAT Third-Party Services Working Group, where it will contribute to shaping the FAA’s roadmap toward digital airspace management and cooperative separation standards.

Conclusion
SkyGrid is embarking on an ambitious journey to redefine air traffic management in the age of Advanced Air Mobility. This task order isn’t just a step forward for SkyGrid, but a leap for the aviation sector towards a more automated, efficient, and safe airspace for all. The collaboration with educational and research institutions underscores the importance of innovation and safety in navigating future airborne technologies. As the work progresses, SkyGrid looks set to be a leading contributor to the reshaping of flight operations across the United States.