Oklahoma is staking its claim as an uprising force in the space industry with the passage of Senate Bill 912, a new law that brings the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) under the umbrella of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA). State leaders designed this strategic move specifically to unify aerospace and aviation initiatives for greater efficiency and impact.
As part of this push, Oklahoma has invested in next-generation air mobility infrastructure at its designated spaceport. ODAA recently partnered with Vigilant Aerospace to implement the FlightHorizon system, a cutting-edge solution that improves the monitoring and management of uncrewed aircraft systems.
At the heart of these efforts is the Oklahoma Air & Space Port in Burns Flat. Operated by OSIDA, this facility is one of just 14 FAA-licensed spaceports in the nation and boasts a 13,503-foot runway—making it ideal for a wide range of aerospace activities.
The spaceport has gained global interest, particularly from Dutch company Dawn Aerospace, which intends to establish its U.S. testing base for the Mk-II Aurora spaceplane at Burns Flat. The aircraft, built for suborbital missions, is capable of taking off and landing on traditional runways.
With these advancements, Oklahoma is signaling its commitment to becoming a national hub for aerospace innovation—anchored by the unique capabilities of the Burns Flat spaceport.