The bill amends existing laws related to aerospace infrastructure in Oklahoma, specifically the Airport Zoning Act and the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "heliport" and "VTOL aircraft," while also updating the definitions of "airport," "airport hazard," and "airport hazard area." Additionally, the bill requires a permit for construction within a 1-nautical mile radius of a publicly owned or operated heliport or vertiport, expanding the existing permit requirements for structures near airports. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics is granted enhanced authority to review structures that may pose safety risks and to promote the integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM) technologies.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics as the clearinghouse for UAS and AAM, emphasizing its role in coordinating efforts among various stakeholders to ensure the safe integration of these technologies into the state's air transportation system. The Department is authorized to conduct research, maintain registries, and develop a statewide network of detection systems for UAS and AAM. It can also enter into partnerships with local governments and federal entities to support the necessary infrastructure for these technologies. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 3-102.1, 3-421
Floor (House): 3-102.1, 3-421
Floor (Senate): 3-102.1, 3-421
Engrossed: 3-102.1, 3-421
Enrolled (final version): 3-102.1, 3-421