Month: September 2023

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BVLOS Technical SIG Meeting: Insights and Plans

06/09/2023

The BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) Technical Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting, organised by ARPAS-UK (Association of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems UK), recently took place at Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel and brought together industry professionals, stakeholders, and experts to discuss critical topics related to drone operations. The meeting marked the beginning of a collaborative initiative to address BVLOS drone operations’ challenges and opportunities. The gathering aimed to create a free-to-talk space where participants could openly share their insights and ideas.

Focus on Risk Quantification

The meeting’s central theme revolved around risk quantification for BVLOS drone operations. Participants engaged in fruitful discussions, offering honest opinions that highlighted the need for extensive education on risk assessment and mitigation in the drone industry.

A significant outcome of the meeting was the decision to develop in-person Risk Quantification courses, scheduled for November. These courses will equip operators and their supply chain partners with the necessary skills to conduct BVLOS operations safely from a technical perspective. 

Importantly, these courses will focus on practical knowledge rather than strategic or political aspects, aiming to enable industry professionals to make credible arguments for BVLOS operations.

The planned Risk Quantification courses, subject to availability and demand, will be available nationwide and offered free of charge to ARPAS-UK members. The intention is to provide accessible and valuable training opportunities to the association’s members, ensuring that they are well-prepared for BVLOS applications.

ARPAS-UK continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the drone industry’s capabilities and knowledge, and the BVLOS Technical SIG is poised to contribute significantly to this mission. 

Watch our recap video here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7107385392542146560

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Protected: ARPAS-UK Response to CAA consultation on UAS regulation (members only)

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September 9 2023 Drone Related Jobs

Disclaimer: All jobs posted here are from LinkedIn and other job sites including member and non-member organizations.

Luffy AI is looking for a Senior Software Engineer

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Altitude Angel is hiring for Drone Operations Manager (FTC to July 31st 2024)

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vertinetik is hiring for the position of Researcher – Forest Data and GIS Analyst

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Surveyar Ltd is looking for UAS/ Developer/ Payload Engineer

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Royal Mail is hiring for the position of a Infrastructure Manager

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Sony Europe is looking for a Imaging Field Applications Engineer

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Bristow Group is hiring within the UK

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QinetiQ is looking for a Senior Technician Uncrewed Aerial Systems

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Arqiva are hiring for the position of Rigger Midlands

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Amazon is looking for an Aircraft Regulatory & Compliance Manager – EU Drone Operations, Amazon Prime Air.

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DroneX & ARPAS-UK Keynote Speech: 27 Sept 2023 at 2pm

DroneX is nearly upon us, and here at ARPAS-UK, we’re busy getting ready!

2023 Update and Latest Market Outlook

Key Note Theatre: 27 Sept 2023 at 2pm

2023 is a busy year, and we expect the same in 2024: Join us to review key regulatory and industry engagement updates.

We will also welcome our members, PwC with Craig Roberts, Head of Drones, and Frost & Sullivan with Michael Rowe, VP Global Aerospace. They will share highlights of their latest industry reports on the perception of drones and the Advanced Air Mobility AAM market opportunity.

ARPAS UK are proud to announce for the third year running to be the official headline partner for DroneX Tradeshow & Conference which will be taking place on the 26th & 27th September at the ExCeL London.

The successful delivery of the 2022 edition led to DroneX being nominated for an industry award by Exhibition News which recognises exhibitions that are breaking boundaries against longer running trade shows! Additionally, the show has also gained a reputation as Europe’s leading business event dedicated to the UAV industry and we are proud to be supporting the team once again for another successful edition!

DroneX is the central platform for the industry ecosystem to enhance conversations that will drive change and act as a voice to push the industry forward to achieve the goals of a safer, more sustainable integrated airspace. The show highlighted the importance of the future of the airspace and played an integral role in signifying the impact that urban air mobility has on the industry. With keynote sessions from thought-leaders such as David Stepanek from Bristow discussing the early adoption of advanced air mobility, followed by other key players including Lilium, Rolls-Royce Electrical, Ehang, NATS, CAA and the Minister of Aviation. It was clear that the demand was to ensure the future of air mobility can benefit from a platform to further connect the ecosystem.

Advanced Air Mobility Expo will allow those within the industry that had a preview from our previous edition its very own hub to source the latest advancements, engage and network with industry professionals and gain insight into the growing market. The show will see the launch of AAM connect, a dedicated networking space, 100 expert-led seminars and over 300 hand-picked exhibitors. In addition, an opportunity to take advantage of over 50 hours of unmissable content from leading experts and keynote speakers, all covering the key aspects of Public acceptance, Sustainability, Infrastructure, Vehicle Development, Traffic and Operations and Safety/ Regulations.

With that said, the Advanced Air Mobility Expo will be taking place next door to the
DroneX Tradeshow & Conference and Helitech Expo on the 26th & 27th September at
the ExCeL London and promises to continue its goals of becoming the leading business
event for the future and integration of airspace.

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Achieving Safer Skies – Enhancing Safety & Visibility in Drone Operations: WATCH AGAIN

Discover the benefits of a standardised, best practice, approach that enables drone operators to elevate safety and gain greater visibility of other operations taking place in their flight area. This informative webinar delves into the various aspects that contribute to the improvement of safety for all air users. With no established standard approach currently in place, we embark on a journey to explore the most effective methods of achieving this vital goal.

During the webinar, we will examine the challenges faced by both uncrewed and crewed aviation, shedding light on the critical areas that demand attention and improvement.

Subsequently, we will provide an insightful overview of the existing UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) training provisions, equipping you with valuable knowledge to enhance your operational practices.

As the webinar reaches its conclusion, we will look at the current market tools and information available. This holistic perspective will empower participants to be part of the creation of a comprehensive view of the skies, fostering safe and compliant flight operations for all.

Speakers:

Philip Binks, Head of ATM, Altitude Angel

Previously, Philip worked for the UK’s largest ANSP, NATS where he held the position of RPAS Domain Expert and Solution Architect.  In this role he was the focal point for all RPAS activities. In addition, Philip supported several high-profile programmes such as the UK’s Pathfinder programme, the Industry Action Group, and held a seat on the ICAO RPAS Panel.

Having begun his career in aviation as an Air Traffic Controller for the RAF, Philip has an unrivalled knowledge of ATM and airspace, and understands the complexities of integrating drones safely into our airspace.

Ryan Shelswell – Head of Training & Technology, Coptrz Ltd
With over 5 years of dedicated experience in the dynamic drone industry, Ryan currently serves as the Head of Training & Technology at Coptrz Ltd who he has been with since the company’s inception in 2016. In this dual role, Ryan leads both the training and technical departments, ensuring a comprehensive approach to drone operations.

Throughout his career, Ryan has been instrumental in managing and collaborating on projects with high-stakes Enterprise customers, including emergency services,inspection agencies, and military organizations. His extensive experience extends to both B2C and B2B communication, enabling effective interaction with stakeholders at all levels, whether in person or virtually in the ever-evolving world of drones.

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Delivering UAS BVLOS flight in non-segregated airspace using aviation-grade Command & Control: WATCH AGAIN

CPD overview:

Earlier this year, uAvionix, Skylift and and British Telecom successfully conducted demonstration flights using uAvionix’s SkyLine cloud-based command and control (C2) system communicating over C-Band and LTE.  The flights achieved two UK firsts for UAS operations; operational Command and Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) C2 systems using C-Band and LTE via BT’s Drone SIM and secondly the transmission of ADS-B OUT on 978 MHz for detect and avoid (DAA) operations. 

This demonstration was observed by the CAA. (https://uavionix.com/bt-group-drone-sim-and-uavionix-skyline-deliver-firsts-for-uk-uas-operations-with-skylift-demonstration-flights/)

The UK CAA participate in the ICAO RPAS Panel, which is working to deliver C-Band CNPC at an international level. 

uAvionix has gained US FAA and FCC approval to operate its SkyLink C-Band C2 radios for true BVLOS operations in non-segregated airspace. The radios operating on aviation-protected C-Band frequencies are controlled by uAvionix’s SkyLine cloud-based C2 network solution that combines fleet management, network health monitoring, detect & avoid, and seamless make-before-break roaming between multiple radio networks and ground stations. The system also uses other radio networks, such as LTE, for multi-path, multi-datalink assured CNPC C2.

C2 radio design assurance is critical to meeting the criteria needed to manage risk during BVLOS operations and to meet the safety case requirements. The C-Band C2 radios are compliant with RTCA DO-362A and will become aviation certified to TSO-C213a in due course. The SkyLine cloud-based network control and associated SkyLink and SkyStation radios are the first certifiable C2 network purpose built for BVLOS operations.

uAvionix, operating at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Emerging Aviation Technology Center, recently completed the first true Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight in non-segregated airspace using aviation protected C-Band in the United States. Serving as the Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP), uAvionix completed the historic flights for CNO, FAA and industry leaders to demonstrate the effectiveness of combining C2 link management and situational awareness for Detect and Avoid (DAA) through the company’s SkyLine software service offering. The flight, a culmination of a multi-year effort involving engineering, operations teams and regulatory review, heralds a significant advancement for UAS operators and businesses seeking to commercialise scalable UAS operations such as medical and package delivery, linear utility inspection, and emergency management. (https://uavionix.com/uavionix-and-choctaw-nation-of-oklahoma-complete-first-us-flights-exercising-faa-and-fcc-approvals-for-aviation-protected-c-band-and-beyond-visual-line-of-sight-

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Emergency Drone Responder Magazine #5 Issue

In this issue there is a wide variety of excellent articles that are instrumental in advancing EDR’s mission to promote the worldwide sharing of knowledge. The magazine would like to thank The West Midlands Police Drone team, Excelerate Technology Group, Scott Mlakar, Rich Gatanis, Martin Hawley, Christophe Parisot, heliguy™, DRONERESPONDERS, C.E.R.R.A and DroneSense for their fantastic articles and their enthusiasm to share their knowledge and experiences.

https://emergencydroneresponder.com/issues/issue-5/

8 September 2023

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Aircraft drone makes history landing on Royal Navy carrier at sea

A pilotless plane has flown on and off a Royal Navy aircraft carrier for the first time.

The W Autonomous Systems (WAS) drone flew from the Lizard Peninsula and on to the deck of HMS Prince of Wales off the Cornish coast, delivered supplies, then flew back in a milestone flight which points the way to the future of naval aviation.

It’s a vital step along the way to operating crewless aircraft safely alongside F-35 Lightning jets and naval Merlin and Wildcat helicopters which are currently the backbone of the Fleet Air Arm.

The goal is to deploy drones with a UK Carrier Strike Group in the future, using them to transfer stores and supplies – such as mail or spare parts – between ships, without the need to launch helicopters.

Drones are cheaper to operate, eliminate any potential risk to aircrew – such as in bad weather – and keep the hi-tech Merlins and Wildcats free for operational sorties, such as hunting hostile submarines or surface vessels which are threats to the carrier strike group.

HMS Prince of Wales has experimented with drone technology before – notably small quadcopters and Banshee targets (small jets which are launched by catapult and parachutes down to land when the mission is complete).

But the trials off the Lizard are in a different league, involving a much larger (ten-metre wingspan), more capable pilotless aircraft.

The Royal Navy joined forces with Southampton-based W Autonomous Systems, a leading-edge British firm which is developing long-range, heavy-lift autonomous drones for defence.

The drones incorporate a ground-breaking autopilot system, eliminating the need to be controlled remotely by trained pilots, and are designed to operate in the most challenging environments.

Its HCMC twin-engine light alloy twin boom aircraft is capable of carrying a payload of 100kg up to 1,000 kilometres (620 miles). Crucially it can land on uneven ground and needs a runway just 150 metres long – a little over half the length of the flight decks on the UK’s Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers – to land or take off.

After extensive preparations ashore by the combined RN and WAS trials team, and attaining endorsements and authorisations from the Civil Aviation Authority, the HCMC drone took off from Predannack, the satellite airfield of RNAS Culdrose, and after a flight of about 20 minutes, touched down safely on the HMS Prince of Wales’ deck.

More information

8 September 2023

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Protected: Network Rail renews UAS Framework

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Future Flight Challenge announces ‘Closing the skills gap’ cohort

The announcement about the “Closing the skills gap” cohort joining the UK Research and Innovation Future Flight Challenge on august 8th, 2023, is a significant development in addressing the skills gaps in the UK’s aviation and aerospace sector, particularly in future flight services and technologies. Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the announcement:

Inspiring the Next Generation: The Future Flight Challenge is committed to inspiring the next generation of professionals in the aviation and aerospace industry. To achieve this goal, several projects have been funded, including:

  • School students visiting aviation facilities and engaging in hands-on activities such as designing and 3-D printing their own aircraft design models.
  • Offering online short courses in cybersecurity, with a focus on reaching underrepresented groups like women and girls.
  • Introducing students to mentors who work in aviation to provide insights into career opportunities and pathways.

Higher Education Involvement: Many projects are developing short courses and modules specialised in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) in colleges and universities. These educational programs aim to equip undergraduates and postgraduates with the necessary skills for careers in future flight technologies.

Upskilling the Existing Workforce: Recognising the importance of supporting the current workforce in the aviation industry, various training methods and programs will be developed. These initiatives include:

  • Enhancing drone pilot training through the use of virtual reality (VR) technology.
  • Upskilling the aviation maintenance workforce to prepare them for future aircraft types and scenarios.
  • Developing safety training and risk management protocols for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations.

Vocational Training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Several projects are focused on providing resources to professionals across various sectors of the UK economy. This includes:

  • UAM Academy for UK City and Local Government (UAM4gov) developing resources and interactive seminars to help local authorities and public bodies understand their role in adopting future flight services and how these technologies can benefit their communities.
  • digiLab creating an online course in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and their applications in future flight.

Innovate UK KTN Support: Innovate UK KTN, a delivery partner on the Future Flight Challenge, has played a pivotal role in this competition by offering support and guidance. This includes webinars and one-to-one support for project applicants, including help with finding collaborators and reviewing draft applications.

Overall, this initiative aims to bridge the skills gap in the rapidly growing field of future flight, inspiring and educating both the next generation of professionals and the existing workforce to meet the industry’s evolving needs.

For more information head over to Innovate UK by clicking here