Senator Lankford Applauds Choctaw Nation’s Selection to Participate in DOT Pilot Program

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today praised the US Department of Transportation’s (DOT) announcement to include Choctaw Nation in the UAS Integration Pilot Program. 

“I congratulate the Choctaw Nation on their selection to participate in the DOT’s pilot program to examine how the public and private sector can work together to integrate cutting-edge technology into the already-complex airspace,” said Lankford. “They have worked for the past 18 months to carefully develop a vision and plan for the use of unmanned technology that is focused on growing innovation and industry in Oklahoma while ensuring public safety. I am pleased that DOT recognized the unique benefits the Choctaw Nation’s proposal has to offer. I look forward to seeing their successes through this pilot program in the days ahead.”

The Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Integration Pilot Program (IPP) is a partnership between state, local and tribal governments with the private sector to safely grow the use of UAS technology. Yesterday, Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao announced the launch of the pilot program. Choctaw Nation is one of 10 selectees and is the only tribal entity selected to participate in the program. 

Lankford joined the Oklahoma congressional delegation in a letter of support for the Choctaw Nation’s application to DOT.

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