Files
Abstract
This study explores collaboration between partners involved in public-private alliances formed
by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA). A brief analysis based on the
comparative case study approach will be used to examine the formation and operation of two
NASA research and development alliances: Advanced General Aviation Transport Experiments
(AGATE) and Small Aircraft Transportation System (SATS). Literature on collaboration helps
to frame the basis for this study. By exploring the development and interaction of these
relationships, this study establishes the elements that facilitate collaboration. The importance of
partnerships and collaboration with SATS and other aviation initiatives is advancing with
government support. At a recent Congressional hearing, Secretary of Transportation Norman
Mineta said, “The Department of Transportation is going to help SATS go from R&D [research
and development] to implementation…implementation is already happening…the next
generation national air transportation system plan will make the number of operations go up
rapidly… SATS is very important to this and our future” (Future of Air, 2004). The study
provides a foundation for future research into the varied public-private partnerships that
constitute SATS