Louisiana is taking part in a national effort to explore what the future of air transportation could look like with the launch of LIFTOff Louisiana, a new program that will test advanced aircraft technology in real-world conditions.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development officially launched the program at the Houma-Terrebonne Airport. Louisiana was selected by the Federal Aviation Administration as one of only eight pilot initiatives nationwide participating in the new Advanced Air Mobility program.

A major part of the project will involve testing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, known as eVTOLs, along with advanced cargo drones. The aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically, similar to a helicopter, while some can transition to more traditional forward flight.

The program will look at how these new types of aircraft can safely operate alongside the helicopters and airplanes already using the nation’s airspace. Louisiana’s testing is expected to include practical uses such as transporting cargo and personnel and supporting offshore energy operations.

The Houma area provides an ideal setting because of its heavy helicopter traffic, coastal environment and connection to the Gulf energy industry. Testing in the area will allow officials to evaluate the aircraft under conditions they could encounter during actual commercial operations.

The technology could eventually have uses far beyond the energy industry. Advanced aircraft and drones could play a role in moving cargo, responding to disasters, conducting search and rescue operations and connecting communities to other forms of transportation.

Several aviation and technology companies are involved in the Louisiana project, including BETA Technologies, Bristow Group and Elroy Air. Louisiana colleges and other state and industry partners are also participating, with workforce development expected to be an important part of the initiative.

Testing will be conducted in stages. Before flight operations expand, officials will evaluate routes, weather conditions, communication and surveillance systems and procedures for safely operating the new aircraft around existing air traffic.

Information gathered through LIFTOff Louisiana will also help federal aviation officials determine what regulations, infrastructure and safety standards may be needed as advanced aircraft become more common.

While the first phase of the program is centered in the Houma area, LIFTOff Louisiana is being developed as a statewide initiative. State transportation officials say the project could strengthen Louisiana’s energy and logistics industries, create opportunities for workforce training and position the state to play a role in the development of emerging aviation technology.

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