Surf Air Mobility Joins FAA-Sponsored CAAT Consortium as First Part 135 Operator
Event summary
- Surf Air Mobility (NYSE: SRFM) became the first Part 135 operator to join the FAA-sponsored Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies (CAAT) Consortium on May 13, 2026.
- The CAAT Consortium aims to integrate emerging electric aircraft, autonomous systems, and advanced aviation technologies into the National Airspace System.
- Membership grants Surf Air Mobility access to FAA-funded task orders, research priorities, and collaboration opportunities with academic, industry, and government partners.
- Surf Air Mobility will contribute operational data and AI-enabled software capabilities to the consortium's efforts.
The big picture
Surf Air Mobility's entry into the CAAT Consortium marks a strategic move to shape the regulatory framework for advanced air mobility technologies. As the first Part 135 operator in the consortium, the company gains direct access to FAA research priorities, positioning itself as a key player in defining the future of aviation operations. This development comes amid growing industry focus on integrating electric and autonomous aircraft into existing airspace systems, with potential implications for operational efficiency and market access.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Alignment
- How Surf Air Mobility's participation will influence FAA's evaluation pathways for next-generation aviation technologies.
- Operational Data Leverage
- Whether Surf Air Mobility can translate consortium insights into competitive advantages for its SurfOS software platform.
- Consortium Impact
- The pace at which CAAT-driven advancements will accelerate the integration of electric and autonomous aircraft into national airspace.
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