ROME, N.Y. – Oneida County has received nearly $900,000 to complete research for NASA at the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) test site at Griffiss International Airport in Rome.

As part of NASA’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) effort, the county will conduct research to develop safer systems for travel and cargo transport.

“Together, we have conducted crucial research that has led to transformative advancements in the UAS industry. I look forward to the impact this new collaboration will have on the future of this emerging technology,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente.

NASA’s AAM project aims to develop automation technology for vertiports, which are airports for unmanned aircraft that take off and land vertically. The research performed in Rome will help provide a better understanding of vertiport operations and infrastructure requirements.

Part of the task order also includes testing range requirements at the drone test site.

“This new NASA task order has positioned Oneida County to be the leader in Advanced Air Mobility development,” said Oneida County Aviation Commissioner Chad Lawrence. “It is a testament to the high quality of work conducted by our UAS test site and its partners.”

Picente says NASA research is expected to continue at the drone site over the next year.