The FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center is the nation’s premier aviation research and development, and test and evaluation facility, and serves as the national scientific test base for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Technical Center activities involve testing and evaluation in air traffic control, communications, navigation, airports, aircraft safety, and security. They also involve long-range development of innovative aviation systems and concepts, development of new air traffic control equipment and software, and in-service modification of existing systems and procedures, all performed in state-of the-art facilities.

With over four decades of achievements, the Technical Center serves as the cornerstone for aviation advancements. At any one time, an average of 150 projects are underway at the Technical Center. Much work is performed through contracts with private industry. Research is also accomplished by academic institutions through aviation research grants. Located 10 miles northwest of Atlantic City, and covering 5,059 acres, the Technical Center consists of laboratories, test facilities, support facilities, the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), and a non-commercial aircraft hangar.

Since the events of September 11th, The Technical Center has risen to the task of being a key focal point for Homeland Security as well. The Center is home to the Federal Air Marshal Program, as well as the Transportation Security Laboratory, which is the government’s leading test and evaluation site for new and improving airport security technology. The Technical Center is also home to the United States Coast Guard Group Air Station Atlantic City, as well as the NJ Air National Guard 177th Fighter Wing.

The Technical Center is a major driver of the South Jersey economy. There are over 1650 federal employees, representing 150 occupational specialties, and over 1300 contractor employees, with a combined annual payroll of $129.6 million, plus an additional $319 million in related construction and other contractual activities. The Technical Center’s contribution to the gross regional product is significant.

Discover the wonders of aviation at the FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center.

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