Imagine driving along a 92-mile stretch of highway in Texas where industrial-grade drones buzz overhead, autonomously managing tasks like security, traffic monitoring and emergency response. This vision is inching closer to reality on Texas State Highway 130 (SH130). No longer just a road for cars, it’s becoming a Texas superhighway.

This “superhighway” has been increasing its Texas footprint for a while now (in fact, SH130 IIEZ has been developing for over four years), but today it’s adding a drone component. The drone aspect of this Texas superhighway stems from a collaboration between Austin, Texas-based Autonomy Institute and drone company Ondas Holdings, whose subsidiaries include Israel drone maker Airobotics, Inc. The goal? Turning a corridor in the Lone Star State into a high-tech hub for all sorts of 24/7 autonomous drone operations.

A new era of drone integration on Texas SH130

The SH130 corridor connects key regions in Central Texas. But besides being a major traffic artery, it’s becoming a proving ground for all sorts of intelligent infrastructure, drones and otherwise. For example, it also supports autonomous cars, trucks and shuttles.

Today, drones enter the mix. Through what’s called an Intelligent Infrastructure Economic Zone (IIEZ), the Autonomy Institute will instal drone “zones” along the highway. That will enable continuous drone operations across a 30-square-mile area per zone for tasks encompassing inspections, security and public safety.

At the heart of this initiative is Ondas’ Optimus System, a fully autonomous drone platform designed for remote operation without the need for on-site human intervention. These drones launch from smart airbases equipped with automated battery-swapping technology, ensuring uninterrupted service for use cases like inspections and public safety. The Optimus System has already been used in the UAE and Israel. Now, its deployment on SH130 marks a major milestone for autonomous drone technology in the U.S.

Why Texas?

Texas has earned a reputation as a national leader in drone innovation, particularly in public safety and disaster response. Projects like Wing’s drone delivery service and collaborations between state and local agencies have positioned the state as a hotbed for drones. In fact, some people even riff on the term ‘Lone Star State,’ now calling it the “Drone Star State.”

“Texas is the undeniable leader in the use of UAS by public safety, and the mission sets are as diverse as the state itself,” said Jason Day of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The SH130 IIEZ is also uniquely positioned to support some of the state’s largest employers, including Tesla, Samsung, Amazon and H-E-B, all of which line the corridor. The project’s leaders suggest that businesses along the corridor will benefit from enhanced security, streamlined operations and access to real-time data collected by these drones. Even in Austin alone, city officials have identified more than 100 drone use cases across a dozen departments, including Austin Energy, Austin Fire, Austin Water, City Planning, Police, Parks, Transportation and Public Works.

Drones providing scalable, cost-effective technology in this superhighway for the future

Dubbed the “modern-day Route 66,” SH130 could redefine what a highway can be. No longer just a physical road for cars, it could support fully autonomous drone zones and Intelligent Infrastructure Economic Zones.

Giving those companies and entities easier access to Ondas’ Optimus System along the corridor could be key in enabling increased drone use. By operating as shared infrastructure, public and private stakeholders can focus on their core tasks without worrying about the logistics of drone operations. For instance, drones can quickly assess fires, accidents and other emergencies, enabling faster response times and reducing costs. Plus, data generated from superhighway drones could contribute to longer-term urban planning and transportation efficiency.

And while the SH130 project is certainly a local initiative, it could be a signal of what’s to come for the future of intelligent infrastructure. For now, it highlights Texas’ role as a leader in drone technology.

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Last week, we told you about a great hotel for drone pilots this winter. That was the Orlando World Center Marriott, which is the first hotel to host its own recurring drone show. But as for a hotel that’s great for drone pilots year round? That’s the Hotel Polaris, which opened on Nov. 14, 2024 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

In addition to reporting on the drone industry for more than 10 years, I’ve also been a travel reporter. And the Hotel Polaris offers a drone-pilot-approved amenity that I’ve never seen before in the U.S.: a flight simulator.

If you’re a drone enthusiast or professional pilot looking for a hotel that caters to your unique passions, the newly opened Hotel Polaris at the U.S. Air Force Academy might just be your perfect landing spot. Combining state-of-the-art aviation amenities with luxurious accommodations, this property is a dream destination for tech-savvy travelers who love to explore the skies — virtually or otherwise. There’s no better flight simulator than this.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Hotel Polaris, including how you can test out the drone flight simulator:

How the Hotel Polaris came about

The Hotel Polaris is located at the U.S. Air Force Academy, though anyone can book a stay there.

The whole project came about through a public-private partnership between the Association of Graduates and Air Force Academy Foundation, the City of Colorado Springs, Blue & Silver Development Partners and Provident Resources Group.

CoralTree Hospitality manages the hotel. That management group is famously behind other niche, luxury properties in standout locations including the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, Calif. It’s even affiliated with some major hotel brands including The Woodlands Resort in Houston (part of the Curio Collection by Hilton) and the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country.

But you came to learn about the Hotel Polaris, which takes things to new heights, literally.

Flight simulators at the Hotel Polaris

The Hotel Polaris is the only hotel in the United States with immersive flight simulators. With it, guests can step into the cockpit of an F-16 fighter jet or a Boeing 737 Max. These advanced simulators put basic drone simulators like the DRL SIM and Zephyr flight simulator (which you would typically just use on your computer at home) to shame.

The hotel’s three simulators deliver a tactile and visually stunning experience. With components like seats, throttles, switches, pedals and yoke actually sourced from real aircraft — combined with a 200-degree HD wraparound screen — this is as close as you’ll get to real flying without leaving the ground.

For drone pilots, these simulators provide an opportunity to hone navigation skills, understand aviation dynamics and immerse themselves in other types of flight beyond just drones. As far as the actual flights, you can choose a range of flying styles. You might go for an F-16 dog fight, or you might try your hand at simulating what it’s like taking off from Denver International Airport in the 737 Max.  

The hotel’s aviation-inspired design

Hotel Polaris doesn’t just cater to aviators through its amenities; the entire property pays homage to the history and beauty of flight. From hanging replicas of the F-35 and B-2 Stealth Bomber in the lobby to aviation-inspired artwork throughout the rooms, the décor is a love letter to aerospace. The mid-century modern architecture, complemented by rich hues of blue and silver, echoes the Air Force Academy’s aesthetic. The whole vibe is both nostalgic and cutting-edge.

Luxury with a view at the Hotel Polaris

With 375 meticulously designed rooms, including exclusive 9th-floor Club Level accommodations, the hotel ensures every guest enjoys comfort and style. Club-level perks like a complimentary breakfast, evening drinks and elevated décor make it ideal for travelers seeking luxury.

Even if you’re not in the Club level, rooms are luxurious. Much of the furniture is custom, including built-in headboards and custom-made side tables. Rooms also have aviation-style artwork, which you’ll also see outside the rooms in public spaces too.

Look out for the mosaic of an airplane dog fight, hanging replicas of F-35 and a B-2 Stealth Bomber, photos from the Academy’s archives and a custom-made aerial sculpture inspired by the Ursa Minor constellation.

The property’s expansive windows offer views of the Front Range and the Academy’s historic campus. Just working from the public space could be inspiring setting for relaxation or creative brainstorming. Consider it perfect for drone photographers editing their footage.

Activities beyond the flight simulators

If you’re traveling with family or friends, Hotel Polaris offers something for everyone. That includes the Junior Cadets program for kids to glider-building activities and the dog-friendly K9 Cadets initiative. For those needing to unwind, the Ascend Spa & Wellness Center offers a range of treatments and wellness activities.

When it’s time to refuel, the hotel boasts six dining outlets. Those include The Aviator Bar for cocktails with a view, and Pamela’s for elevated American cuisine. Doolies soda shop has a fun, casual family-friendly vibe.

There’s also indoor meeting space, an outdoor pool and fitness center. Oh, and it’s pet-friendly.

Exploring the Pikes Peak region

The hotel’s location is convenient for people visiting the U.S. Air Force Academy, perhaps ahead of a college tour or for a graduation ceremony. It sits just outside the North Entrance of the Academy. But it’s not just for people affiliated with education.

All the onsite amenities are the perfect complement to a day spent capturing aerial footage of the nearby Rocky Mountains or the iconic U.S. Air Force Academy chapel.

Drone pilots and nature lovers alike will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to some of Colorado’s most scenic areas. The Rocky Mountains provide ample opportunity for exploration, while the city of Colorado Springs offers cultural and historical attractions.

The hotel is located about 30 minutes from the Colorado Springs Airport and an hour from Denver.

Hotel Polaris: is it worth it?

It just opened — and I haven’t stayed there myself — so I can’t say for sure whether the Hotel Polaris is worth it. But it’s certainly compelling.

Whether you’re a drone pilot looking to refine your skills or an aviation enthusiast seeking a one-of-a-kind stay, this hotel sets a new standard for traveler-friendly innovation. So pack your gear, charge your batteries and prepare to soar. Hotel Polaris could take your next vacation to new heights.

For more information or to book your stay, visit www.theHotelPolaris.com or call (833) 311-5581. Rates start at $229 per night.

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