Airport Technology Research & Development

Using science to make airports safe, smart, and sustainable

The Airport Technology Research & Development (ATR) Branch is the FAA’s research hub and testing site dedicated to ensuring the safety, capacity, and efficiency of U.S. airports.

We discover and evaluate new technologies and methods that are critical to the future of aerospace. ATR’s work informs policies, standards, and regulatory guidance to meet the demands of increasing air traffic, new types of aircraft, and environmental factors.

Our research programs align with the Department of Transportation’s strategic goals of Safety, Equity, Climate and Sustainability, and Transformation.

Project Areas

ATR’s research directly impacts the advancement of airport ecosystems. Explore the project areas below to learn how our research is applied.

Hear From Our Experts

Resources

WILDLIFE STRIKE DATABASE

Explore additional resources maintained by ATR.

PRINTABLE FACT SHEETS 

Download information on a growing number of ATR program areas and projects. 

ATR ACRONYM LIST 

View all ATR Acronyms.