Altaport Secures NASA SBIR Phase I Contract to Automate Advanced Air Mobility

Utah-based Altaport has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I contract by NASA for its project, “Microweather Data Integration, Classification, and Communication Using a Vertiport Automation System for Safe and Efficient Advanced Air Mobility Operations.”

The Phase I contract, valued at $150,000, will focus on proving the technical and commercial feasibility of Altaport’s proposed Vertiport Automation System. The project’s scope of work includes developing a system with real-time monitoring of vertiport operations, enhanced safety through automated hazard detection, and increased efficiency by streamlining resource allocation. The technology aims to reduce human workload and facilitate seamless communication between pilots, operators, and air traffic control.

“NASA’s unwavering commitment to safe and efficient advanced air mobility is exactly what the industry needs right now,” said Matt Broffman, Altaport CEO.

The company also received a Utah Technology Innovation Funding (UTIF) microgrant from the Nucleus Institute, a program designed to assist first-time applicants to the competitive SBIR program.

“The Nucleus Institute has provided immeasurable help in navigating the complex grant application process for the DoD, USAF, and NASA,” said Torrie Meliska, Altaport principal investigator. “We wouldn’t have been able to submit, let alone win, this SBIR project without their help.”

Companies interested in pursuing non-dilutive research and development funding through the federal SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs can contact the Nucleus Institute at Grow@Nucleusutah.org.