About the Technical Center

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The FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center (Technical Center) is one of the nation's premier aviation research, development, test and evaluation facilities. Its world-class laboratories and top-notch engineering place the Technical Center at the forefront of the FAA's challenge to modernize the U.S. air transportation system. The Technical Center serves as the FAA national scientific test base for research and development, test and evaluation, and verification and validation in air traffic control, communications, navigation, airports, aircraft safety, and security. The Technical Center is the primary facility supporting the nation's Next Generation Air Transportation System, called NextGen.

Located 10 miles northwest of Atlantic City, and covering over 5,000 acres, the Technical Center consists of state-of-the art laboratories, test facilities, support facilities, the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), and a non-commercial aircraft hangar. The Technical Center is also home to the Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Lab, and the United States Coast Guard Group Air Station Atlantic City, as well as the New Jersey Air National Guard 177th Fighter Wing. While the Technical Center serves to advance aviation, it is a key focal point for Homeland Security as well.

With more than 50 years of achievement and excellence, the Technical Center continues to serve as the cornerstone for aviation innovation across the globe.

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