Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Thursday that Michigan and Ontario will be collaborating on a first-of-its-kind technology initiative studying the feasibility of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) mobility corridor.
The study would evaluate whether a commercial “drone skyway” connecting parts of Michigan with Ontario would work across international borders, as well as within the state.
Through the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan Aeronautics Commission (MAC), the State of Michigan and the Government of Ontario will explore whether or not small drones can be flown beyond the line of a pilot’s sight and be used in operations like on-time delivery, medical transport, and other small-scale deployments of UAS. The initiative is supported by the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), the Michigan Economic Development Corp., and the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). Information gathered from the study will be used in decision-making surrounding advanced air mobility in North America.
“Cross-border partnership is critical across all dimensions of mobility, including aerial systems. Michigan and Ontario have a rich history of partnering on groundbreaking innovations, and this project by Air Space Link continues that tradition,” said Gov. Whitmer. “Considering the density of auto suppliers, logistic companies, technology start-ups, and consumers in the region, it is a natural fit to test this cutting-edge aerial technology here. The vital research could lead to faster product deliveries and reduced supply chain disruptions in the future, helping us grow Michigan’s economy and put Michiganders first.”
More than a quarter of the more than $700 billion in annual trade between the United States and Canada crosses between Windsor and Detroit, the most active border crossing in North America.
“Ontario has a strong and strategically important economic connection with the State of Michigan,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “We welcome this opportunity to further deepen that relationship and foster new jobs and economic opportunities in developing industries now and well into the future.”