FARGO, N.D. (AP) - U.S. Sen. John Hoeven says the Federal Aviation Administration has approved a request to expand North Dakota's airspace for drone testing.
The move announced Wednesday paves the way for increased unmanned aircraft testing at Grand Forks Air Force Base, which was the first of six national test sites to begin operations.
The area covers about two-thirds of the state. Hoeven says it makes North Dakota the most versatile range in the country and positions Grand Forks as a hub for drone research and business.
The Air Force last week signed a lease that opens up more than 200 acres of property for a drone technology and business park known as Grand Sky.
Grand Forks officials say the unmanned aircraft industry should bring thousands of jobs to the region.