Texas Launched Project Nexus for Electric Aircraft

The state has begun a three-year program to test advanced electric air taxi operations across North Texas.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Air Travel

Bold vector editorial illustration of a sleek electric aircraft hovering above a platform, representing modern air mobility. — The Texas Department of Transportation has launched Project Nexus to evaluate electric air taxi operations, testing integration into the state's transportation network. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Texas Department of Transportation has officially kicked off Project Nexus to evaluate the integration of electric aircraft into the state's transportation network. Joby Aviation has begun piloted test flights and established a large operations base in Fort Worth as part of this initiative.

Why it matters

This program prepares infrastructure and airspace protocols for advanced air mobility, aiming to streamline future passenger, medical, and cargo transport. By testing these technologies now, officials hope to ensure seamless integration into existing aviation hubs.

Project Nexus spans a three-year testing cycle supported by a 45,000-square-foot facility at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport. Researchers are analyzing traffic models that accommodate up to 50 electric air taxi operations per hour.

The players

Texas Department of Transportation

This state agency oversees the planning, construction, and maintenance of Texas' multimodal transportation systems.

Joby Aviation

This California-based aerospace company specializes in the development of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.

NASA

This federal agency is responsible for the civilian space program as well as aeronautics and space research.

FAA

This national authority regulates all aspects of civil aviation in the United States and manages air traffic control systems.

The details

Joby Aviation is conducting flights into controlled airspace at DFW International Airport using helicopters and fixed-wing planes to collect essential data. The project ultimately intends to connect the Texas Triangle, including Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston, for logistical and passenger use.

2018: FAA and NASA began initial studies on electric air taxi integration.
2023: Joby and NASA completed a detailed simulation of operations in the DFW terminal area.
September 10, 2026: The Texas Department of Transportation launched Project Nexus at Perot Field.

Roadmap

Project Nexus accelerates the transition from traditional aviation to electric advanced air mobility by creating real-world proving grounds for new technology. This initiative positions Texas as a primary testing hub in the competitive global race to scale electric aircraft infrastructure.

While current flights are restricted to testing, residents may see increased aerial activity near DFW International Airport and Perot Field. These initial tests serve as the baseline for future regional travel options that could eventually link major Texas cities.

The takeaway

Advancements in electric aviation require rigorous testing of airspace integration and logistical support before public adoption. Residents and stakeholders should monitor these test phases as the state builds the foundation for future aerial transport connectivity.