Ground-Based Detect and Avoid Facilitates FAA BVLOS Waiver at Michigan Test Site
Integration of uAvionix Casia G System Enables Advanced Drone Operations
Unmanned Vehicle Technologies, LLC (UVT) and uAvionix have announced that UVT has been granted a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) waiver to operate small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) at their test site in Michigan. The waiver, identified as 107W-2024-01230 and issued under Part 107 regulations, allows UVT to conduct BVLOS operations without the need for Visual Observers (VOs). This advancement opens new possibilities for remote enterprise applications.
Enhanced Capabilities with Casia G
The waiver’s approval is largely attributed to the integration of the uAvionix Casia G ground-based detect-and-avoid (DAA) system. This advanced system is designed to detect and avoid other aircraft, ensuring safe and reliable BVLOS operations. Notably, the Casia G system has also been employed in the Oswego City Police Department’s Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program.
“We are thrilled to have received this waiver from the FAA, which validates our commitment to safety and innovation in the UAS industry,” stated Matthew Rybar, Vice President of Remote Operations at UVT. “The Casia G system from uAvionix is a game-changer, allowing us to expand our operational capabilities and explore new applications for our technology.”
Reflecting Industry Trends
The waiver granted to UVT is indicative of a growing trend within the UAS industry, where both commercial entities and public safety agencies are increasingly securing BVLOS waivers. Advanced DAA technologies like Casia G play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of these operations.
“The success of our technology in securing BVLOS waivers for both UVT and the Oswego City Police Department is a testament to its reliability and effectiveness,” remarked Jon Damush, CEO of uAvionix. “We anticipate that more companies and departments will follow suit, leveraging the capabilities of Casia G to enhance their UAS operations.”
Applications and Future Prospects
With the ability to conduct BVLOS operations, UVT is set to explore various applications, including infrastructure inspection, agricultural monitoring, and emergency response. The Michigan test site will serve as a proving ground for these applications, demonstrating the potential of BVLOS operations to transform industries and improve operational efficiencies.
To ensure safety, the FAA waiver includes provisions such as maintaining a maximum altitude of 240 feet above ground level, using geofencing to confine operational areas, and employing pre-planned routes for automated flights. Additionally, the Casia G system must be operational during all BVLOS operations, providing real-time airspace awareness to the remote pilot in command (PIC).
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