Surf Air Mobility Inc. (NYSE: SRFM) has joined the Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies consortium as a member organization, according to a company statement. The company is the first Part 135 passenger operator to join the consortium.

The CAAT is a national initiative between the Texas A&M University System and the Federal Aviation Administration. The consortium brings together government, academia, and industry participants to advance the integration of emerging electric aircraft, autonomous systems, and advanced aviation technologies into the National Airspace System.

As a consortium member, Surf Air Mobility will be eligible to respond to FAA-funded task orders exclusive to consortium members and gain visibility into FAA-sponsored research priorities and emerging aviation technology needs. The company will participate in FAA-member discussions and working groups shaping future solicitations and collaborate with academic, industry, nonprofit, and government partners across the consortium.

"Surf Air Mobility is building an intelligent operating system for air mobility, and the CAAT gives us a direct connection to the FAA's research and development priorities that will shape the future of aviation," said Deanna White, CEO of Surf Air Mobility.

Albert Bejarano, Acting Associate Director for Center of Advanced Aviation Technologies, said Surf Air Mobility brings a valuable industry perspective through its real-world aviation operations, operational data, and software-enabled capabilities.

Surf Air Mobility operates one of the largest commuter airlines in the United States by scheduled departures and provides private charter services. The Los Angeles-based company develops AI-enabled SurfOS software designed to support the modernization of air operations and adoption of next-generation aircraft.