OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, and Sen. Kelly Hines, R-Oklahoma City, recently hosted an interim study examining the growth of unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air mobility in Oklahoma and what the state can do to remain competitive as the technology continues to develop.

Aerospace and defense currently contributes $52.5 billion in economic impact to Oklahoma and supports more than 250,000 jobs. As the advanced air mobility environment becomes increasingly significant and evolves rapidly, the study examined how Oklahoma can build on that foundation while protecting critical infrastructure, supporting emerging technologies and positioning the state for continued growth.

"The advanced mobilities environment in Oklahoma is changing quickly, and there is a real opportunity for us to be intentional about how we grow with it," Miller said. "This study gave us a chance to look more closely at where Oklahoma is positioned today and what we should be paying attention to as these technologies continue to develop. I want us to be thoughtful about the decisions we make now so we are ready to support the opportunities ahead."

"Advanced air mobility has the potential to open new doors for Oklahoma’s aerospace industry, particularly when it comes to manufacturing and job creation," Hines said. "We want to see more of these technologies developed, tested and built right here in our state. Growing that kind of industry means more opportunities for Oklahoma businesses and workers, while strengthening an industry that is already a major part of our economy."

The study highlighted investments already underway in western Oklahoma, at Camp Gruber and in the Tulsa area to support testing, radar systems and other infrastructure needed for emerging aviation technologies.

The discussion also focused on the role of research, testing and infrastructure in attracting additional development and manufacturing to Oklahoma. Presenters said those efforts can help position the state for long-term growth in aircraft and component manufacturing.

Federal regulations were another major part of the discussion. Participants discussed anticipated Federal Aviation Administration rules that could expand commercial drone operations and the importance of having infrastructure and policies in place so Oklahoma is prepared as those opportunities become available.

Public safety and airspace protection were also addressed, including how increased unmanned aircraft activity could affect critical infrastructure and other sensitive locations.

Hines said at the beginning of the study that he and Rep. Miller wanted to better understand how Oklahoma can continue expanding its presence in the industry and whether ideas from the discussion could help shape policy in the upcoming legislative session.