OKLAHOMA CITY (OBV) — As Aerospace Week brings industry, education and public partners together across the state, lawmakers are moving a bill aimed at positioning Oklahoma for the next wave of flight. HB 4392 would create a targeted investment program to help communities stand up advanced air mobility (AAM) and unmanned systems pilot sites, supporting companies as they move from testing to certification and scaling.
“Aerospace Week is a great reminder that Oklahoma has always been a leader in aviation, but the next chapter is already here,” said Rep. Miller, the bill’s House author. “House Bill 4392 positions us to lead in advanced air mobility and drone technology by creating pilot sites where companies can safely test and refine their systems. The first line of effort on initial applications includes medical delivery services as well as public safety operations. When you pair that with smart investments in infrastructure and software, you create an environment where businesses can grow and where our workforce, from CareerTech to our universities, is ready to meet that demand.”
What HB 4392 would do
- Create the Sustainable Emerging Aviation Services Investment Program (SEA SIP). The program would help Oklahoma compete for AAM and drone opportunities with a clear, state‑level tool.
- Designate pilot sites. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace & Aeronautics would name at least five locations where companies can test and operate AAM and unmanned systems in a collaborative, real‑world environment.
- Fund what moves projects forward. Pilot sites could be eligible for targeted investments in infrastructure, equipment and software—the pieces companies need to progress from testing to certification and scale‑up.
- Grow the pipeline. By focusing on shared, durable infrastructure, the program is designed to attract operators and suppliers, and to strengthen workforce connections with CareerTech, universities and industry partners.
Why it matters
Aerospace and defense are among Oklahoma’s largest and fastest‑growing sectors. HB 4392 ties that momentum to emerging flight operations—from medical delivery to public safety missions—and provides a framework for communities and companies to de‑risk early deployments while developing local talent.What’s next
HB 4392 passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration. The Department of Aerospace & Aeronautics would lead site designations and program implementation upon enactment.
