NASA has restructured its aeronautics programs, returning to long-term investment in cutting-edge fundamental research in traditional aeronautics disciplines. Four key objectives guide this new focus:

1. Re-establish our commitment to mastering the science of subsonic (rotary and fixed wing), supersonic, and hypersonic flight;

2. Preserve the Agency's research facilities, such as wind tunnels, as national assets;

3. Focus research in areas that are appropriate to NASA's unique capabilities; and

4. Directly address the needs of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NGATS) in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other government agencies. (NGATS) is a multi-agency plan being developed under the leadership of the Joint Planning and Development Office to meet serious challenges facing the U.S. air transportation system by 2025.

The Langley Research Center uses its expertise to contribute to all three of the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate’s research programs.  These Programs are Fundamental Aeronautics Program, Airspace Systems Program, and the Aviation Safety Program.  The Aeronautics Research Directorate also manages reimbursable projects for the Center. 

For more information on the programs, please visit:
www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/programs.htm