UAVionix

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Enhancing Drone as First Responder Programs with uAvionix’s Casia G Nighttime Capability

In recent years, the use of drones in emergency response has revolutionized the way first responders handle critical situations. Among the cutting-edge technologies enabling this transformation is uAvionix’s Casia G. As a key component of Drone as a First Responder (DFR) programs, Casia G detects aircraft flying around drone operations, allowing potential collisions to be avoided. To support the growth of these public safety programs, uAvionix is excited to announce a significant development: the Casia G will soon support nighttime operations, broadening its utility and effectiveness for emergency services.

The applications of Casia G are diverse, including supporting inspections of construction sites and critical infrastructure, as well as monitoring rail yards and solar farms. However, its most impactful use is in DFR programs. When an emergency call is made, having a drone on the scene first provides invaluable situational awareness to police, fire, and emergency services, ensuring a more efficient and safer response.

Casia G is foundational to the enablement of DFR programs, facilitating rapid deployment of drones to emergency scenes. The system alerts operators to nearby aircraft and allows them to safely operate drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) without the need for human visual observers. This means that drone pilots can rapidly launch and control the aircraft from remote locations prior to responders arriving on the scene with full approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“Casia G has become a critical piece of infrastructure, enabling organizations to fly BVLOS without human visual observers,” explains Jason Hardy-Smith, VP of Product at uAvionix. “This allows DFR drone pilots to be remote from the UAS during flight and expedites the time from when an emergency call comes in to when a drone is on-site and providing better situational awareness to emergency responders.”

Currently, Casia G operates effectively from half an hour after sunrise to half an hour before sunset. However, recognizing that many emergencies occur at night, uAvionix has prioritized the development of nighttime capability. Drew Swift of the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office elaborates, “Crime doesn’t stop when it gets dark. In fact, a very high percentage of serious crime occurs after the sun sets. UAS are a critical tool in our arsenal to react in an efficient and timely manner to 911 calls, providing us the situational awareness to protect both the public and officers. As such, having DAA [Detect and Avoid] capabilities 24/7 is absolutely necessary.”

The upcoming nighttime functionality, slated for release in October 2024, is an exciting advancement. The existing hardware and cameras will be used, leveraging built-in GPS to determine the precise time of dusk at each location. As darkness falls, Casia G will automatically switch to night mode, adjusting camera settings and utilizing a new algorithm designed to detect navigation and anti-collision lights on an aircraft.

As seen in the following video, the algorithm has demonstrated impressive capabilities, with initial performance reports indicating that the detection range at night will be equal to or even surpass that of daytime operations. “All in all, it’s a really exciting development. We found that we’re able to use the same hardware and cameras as our daytime solution,” Hardy-Smith notes. “With just a software update, we’ll be able to bring nighttime detection of aircraft to Casia G customers, and we’ll be delivering it this October.”

The introduction of nighttime operations for Casia G will significantly enhance the effectiveness of DFR programs, ensuring that drones can provide critical situational awareness regardless of the time of day. This development underscores uAvionix’s commitment to advancing drone technology to meet the evolving needs of emergency services, making communities safer and response times faster.

As we approach the launch of this groundbreaking feature, uAvionix continues to lead the way in integrating innovative solutions into public safety operations. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to October 2024, and witness firsthand how Casia G is transforming DFR programs across the nation.

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uAvionix Achieves FAA TSO Certification for ping200XR Combined Transponder and GPS Receiver, Expanding Airspace Access for UAS

uAvionix, a leader in avionics technology for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), today announced that the ping200XR Mode S ADS-B transponder with integral aviation GPS, has received Technical Standard Order (TSO) certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This milestone is the latest major TSO certification for uAvionix and offers the lowest certified Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) solution for worldwide airspace compliance.

The ping200XR TSO has received TSO-C112e and TSO-C166b for transponder and ADS-B functionality, TSO-C88b for its internal pressure altimeter, and TSO-C145e for the integral aviation GPS. Weighing only 52 grams and measuring 47 x 72 x 10mm, the ping200XR offers everything required for airspace access or for certified aircraft in a single enclosure. The ping200XR TSO ensures the aircraft can be detected by Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR), Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), and ADS-B IN receivers, facilitating seamless integration into national and international airspace. 

“Receiving TSO certification for the ping200XR represents a significant achievement for uAvionix and underscores our commitment to advancing UAS technology in a way that prioritizes safety and compliance,” said Christian Ramsey, Chief Commercial Officer for uAvionix. “This approval from the FAA is a testament to the reliability and safety our products bring to the skies, enabling broader access and acceptance by regulators and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) worldwide.”

In its uncertified format, the ping200XR has been particularly popular with high altitude aircraft and balloons which must operate in Class A and above airspace. These certifications open the ping200XR TSO to markets which require certifications such as Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, the ping200XR TSO is particularly advantageous for aircraft seeking type certification such as future eVTOL/AAM platforms.

ping200XR TSO will begin shipping in September 2024.

Since its inception in 2015, uAvionix has been at the forefront of avionics for crewed and uncrewed aircraft, developing a suite of products that address the unique challenges of integrating uncrewed systems into the global airspace infrastructure. Each TSO-certified product from uAvionix not only paves the way for safer skies but also supports the expanding utility of UAS across commercial, government, and recreational sectors.

12 August 2024

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uAvionix: Pushing the envelope – testing the future of multiple link SATCOM solutions with StarLink

In February 2023, uAvionix began testing the first versions of Starlink’s antennas and connectivity, exploring the possibilities for advanced LEO-satellite-based command and control (C2) communications for small UAS. The Starlink results were encouraging, and we have continued our efforts throughout this past year.

As a leading provider of Command, Navigation, and Surveillance technologies for small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS), we have consistently promoted multi-modal connectivity solutions to support both assured C2 and high-bandwidth payload communications. By integrating various connectivity methods, we provide path and frequency diversity, ensuring reliable operation everywhere.

Today, uAvionix is pleased to highlight a significant step forward in their integration efforts with the successful completion of test flights using Starlink and uAvionix’s muLTElink airborne radio. The integration work continues their commitment to offering the best possible connectivity solutions for small UAS, and the recent flight tests demonstrated unprecedented connectivity for both C2 and payload communications, delivering data rates in the megabits per second with latencies below 100 milliseconds.

This milestone is an extension of our integration with L-band satellite connectivity solutions that have been implemented across various platforms to ensure assured C2 communications. By introducing Starlink to our connectivity suite, we will enhance our capability to provide both assured C2 and high-bandwidth payload communications, such as streaming video or ISR data, back to the operator. This integration further underscores our dedication to multi-modal solutions that combine path and frequency diversity, a principle we have long championed.

The achievement highlights the potential of Starlink to revolutionize UAS C2 communications and payload backhaul solutions, promising a new era of connectivity for uncrewed aerial systems.

Stay tuned for more updates as we delve into the technical details and comparative performance of the varying connectivity options for sUAS communications. This forthcoming analysis will offer deeper insights into the relative strengths and weaknesses of each connectivity type.

7 August 2024

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uAvionix FlightLine Surveillance Services Demonstrated Within Volant Autonomy’s Integrated Traffic Management

uAvionix, a leader in aviation surveillance solutions, announces the integration of its FlightLine surveillance services with Volant Autonomy’s advanced ITM (Integrated Traffic Management) system for ALIAS (Agile and Integrated Airspace System), a leading-edge UK Government $5M Future Flight Phase III project. The collaboration, showcased in the Channel Islands, is an important step forward in advancing the integration of unsegregated crewed and uncrewed operations into the UK airspace system and supporting Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations for Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This exciting development highlights the capabilities of UAS for numerous airborne applications, particularly as the UK’s CAA begins to adopt SORA (Specific Operation Risk Assessment) as the roadmap to scalable BVLOS operations.

Following the successful completion of Project ALIAS in June 2024, Volant Autonomy has seen a surge in interest for their BVLOS enabling technology. uAvionix’s FlightLine system proved to be an invaluable asset in supporting the consortium’s demonstration flights. Anthony Lawrenson, COO of Volant Autonomy, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating:

“As the ALIAS Project Lead, I was very impressed with the support provided by uAvionix and the quality of their FlightLine system. I am confident this initial collaboration will lead to much greater opportunities in the near future. We picked up some great data while testing our Flyte Autonomy and DAA (Detect & Avoid) systems including high quality data from the FlightLine system that supported safe and coordinated operations of crewed and uncrewed aircraft.”

The integration of uAvionix FlightLine API into Volant’s system was quick and seamless; it delivered timely and reliable Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) positional data which formed an important part of the ALIAS Traffic Information Service (TIS). The provision of acquiring and utilizing high assurance positional data in collaboration with primary and secondary radar feeds from Ports of Jersey ATC (Air Traffic Control) is a key enabler for Volant’s DAA solution, which adheres to the RTCA’s ACAS sXu (Aircraft Collision Avoidance System) standards.

As well as providing safe and dynamic separation of Draken’s Diamond DA-42 with UAVs operated by SkyLift and SkyPorts, the latest ALIAS trials, saw SkyLift uncrewed aircraft operating in and out of Jersey Airport, in the Channel Islands, showcasing the realistic potential for the provision of multiple airborne services safely operating within a live ATC environment.

David Cleaver, CEO of Volant Autonomy, stated, “The use of the uAvionix FlightLine surveillance service aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver state-of-the-art ITM solutions to the global aerospace industry. Our combined expertise and technology, particularly in the development of certifiable DAA solutions, provide a robust framework for the future of BVLOS operations.” 

Paul Beard, founder and CTO of uAvionix, added, “The integration of high assurance data and the use of aviation-grade certifiable systems are crucial to enabling scalable BVLOS operations in Europe and the US. The ALIAS project has provided an excellent platform to demonstrate these capabilities, showcasing how such advancements can significantly enhance the safety and reliability of integrated airspace systems.

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About uAvionix: 
uAvionix Corporation develops innovative aviation surveillance solutions to enhance airspace safety. Their products, including ADS-B transponders and receivers, are designed to meet the needs of both crewed and uncrewed aircraft.
For more information about uAvionix and its aviation safety solutions, please visit https://uavionix.com/. 
Follow uAvionix on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube
Contact for media: [email protected]
 
About Volant Autonomy: 
Volant Autonomy specializes in autonomous aviation technology, offering high assurance solutions for BVLOS operations. Their SORA aligned auto-planning systems, DAA, and advanced autonomous flight-guidance solutions are designed to improve safety and efficiency in the evolving landscape of ITM.

Volant Autonomy and uAvionix are ARPAS-UK members.

22 July 2024

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uAvionix Awarded FAA Contract to Advance BVLOS Operations

uAvionix, a leader in avionics solutions for uncrewed and crewed aircraft, announced today that it has been awarded a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) contract to advance the commercial use of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the National Airspace System (NAS). The contract aims to develop highly reliable Command and Control (C2) communications for extended Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations across challenging terrains. Partnering with the University of Alaska Fairbanks UAS Test Site, uAvionix will employ its Link Executive Manager (LEM) to fuse LTE, Iridium SATCOM, and C-Band communications links to deliver uninterrupted and reliable C2 during long-range BVLOS flights along an Alaskan pipeline.

Reliance on a single link or common infrastructure isn’t always feasible in remote and mountainous terrain. Having multiple, seamless connections to the aircraft from airborne and ground-based communications provides the safety and flexibility needed to reliably perform these complex operations. Flying for extended ranges with many transitions between communications paths and frequencies will provide the data needed to support FAA rule making and reinforce the concept that using UAS technology can be used safely and economically across all types of terrain and infrastructure.

Cyriel Kronenburg of uAvionix

The current practice for BVLOS flights in the National Airspace involves obtaining FAA waivers or exemptions, which often rely on a single active C2 link with a single alternate standby link. Challenging terrain conditions, such as those found in Alaska, can significantly impact the availability of both the primary and alternate links resulting in difficulties satisfying the risk analysis for the BVLOS approval, or worse a lost link condition and failure of the UAS mission. uAvionix, in collaboration with the FAA, will work on a system that integrates cellular networks, Iridium SATCOM, and aviation protected C-Band into an assured C2 communications system consisting of multiple concurrent links using both frequency and path diversity to minimize the risk of lost links over adverse topography.

This innovative system will be controlled by a Link Executive Manager (LEM) through the SkyLine cloud-based platform, ensuring seamless and automatic switching between radios to maintain optimal and uninterrupted communication irrespective of ground conditions. Test flights will take place at the Alaska UAS test site, where achieving path and link diversity is challenging due to limited cellular coverage, high tower installation costs and mountains that block radio frequency signals.

We have a consistent track record of collaboration and success with the FAA. This contract builds upon that success and demonstrates our commitment to advancing BVLOS operations for the industry. By developing Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP) infrastructure, we are advancing the commercial viability of UAS operations while maintaining safety and efficiency for UAS operators.

Christian Ramsey, Managing Director for Uncrewed Aviation at uAvionix

The initiative represents a significant step towards making BVLOS operations a more regular part of the UAS industry and follows swiftly on the heels of uAvionix receiving an FAA Exemption to fly BVLOS on the Vantis network that utilizes the uAvionix C2CSP infrastructure to connect other technologies for mission control and detect and avoid.

27 March 2024

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A New Era for Aviation Safety and Efficiency: uAvionix Acquires Iris Automation

uAvionix, a leader in communications, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) solutions for the safe integration of Crewed and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), has announced its acquisition of Iris Automation™, provider of optical Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology. This strategic move combines uAvionix’s extensive CNS and aviation expertise with Iris’ leadership in computer vision-based systems for the safe separation of aircraft. The acquisition not only bolsters uAvionix’s capabilities and services but also marks an important leadership change as Jon Damush, former CEO of Iris Automation, takes the helm as CEO of uAvionix Corporation.

“The combination of Iris Automation’s and uAvionix’s capabilities provides for a multi-layered-safety architecture that supports integration of UAS into the National Airspace System,” noted Paul Beard, CTO and founder of uAvionix. “Through our collective efforts, we are solving the two biggest technical challenges to UAS integration: Command and Control and Detect and Avoid.  Solving these problems builds safer airspace for all users.”

A Safe and Efficient Integrated Airspace

uAvionix’s deep experience with avionics development and certification in crewed, uncrewed, and defense technologies have long provided innovative and cost-effective products and services that create cooperative communication and awareness for all airspace users, from the stratosphere to the airport surface.  Iris Automation’s pioneering airborne and ground-based optical systems deliver non-cooperative situational awareness for the integration of crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Together, the combined capabilities position uAvionix to provide aviators with the certified avionics, aviation data, and safety solutions necessary for a fully integrated airspace.

Jon Damush Assumes Role of CEO of uAvionix Corporation 

As CEO, Jon Damush expands the current uAvionix leadership team and brings more than 30 years of aviation technology experience. His extensive background in engineering for crewed and uncrewed aviation, software development, and systems integration positions him as a visionary leader to guide uAvionix’s growth across diverse markets, including General Aviation, Uncrewed Aviation, Defense, and Aviation Networks.

“Jon Damush’s appointment as CEO hits all the right marks for uAvionix. His exceptional background and vision complement an already strong leadership team at uAvionix and aligns perfectly with the uAvionix mission to lead the way in advancing aviation safety and efficiency,” said David Page, Partner at DC Capital Partners. “The addition of Iris’ optical capabilities with existing uAvionix solutions further cements our market position within BVLOS operations.”

The acquisition of Iris Automation, coupled with Jon Damush’s leadership, fortifies uAvionix’s position as an industry leader for the safe and efficient integration of UAS into the National Airspace. By innovatively combining its aviation expertise with Iris’ advanced technology systems, the company is ushering in a new era for safety and efficiency for everything that flies.

About uAvionix

uAvionix was founded with the mission of bringing safety solutions to aviation that accelerate the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into National Airspace Systems (NAS). uAvionix offers innovative, low SWaP TSO certified and uncertified avionics and services for General Aviation (GA), Defense and UAS markets. The team consists of an unparalleled engineering and management team with a unique combination of experience within avionics, surveillance, airport services, UAS aircraft development, radio frequency (RF), and semiconductor industries. 

To learn more about uAvionix crewed and uncrewed products and services, please visit: www.uavionix.com

Follow uAvionix on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

uAvionix Media Contact: [email protected]

About Iris Automation 

Iris Automation is a safety avionics technology company pioneering on- and off-board perception systems and aviation policy services that enable customers to build scalable operations for crewed and uncrewed aircraft; unlocking the potential of countless industries. Iris’ Casia system runs either onboard the aircraft or in a ground-based configuration. We work closely with civil aviation authorities globally as they implement regulatory frameworks ensuring BVLOS is conducted safely, partnering on multiple FAA ASSURE and BEYOND UAV Integration Programs and Transport Canada’s BVLOS Technology Demonstration Program. Visit www.irisonboard.com.

uAvionix is an ARPAS-UK Member.

24 October 2023

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uAvionix and the Choctaw Nation Commence First-Ever FCC-Authorized Operational C-Band BVLOS Operations

uAvionix, a leading provider of command, navigation, and surveillance technologies for crewed and uncrewed aircraft, announced today that it has received FCC (Federal Communications Commission) approval, coordinated with the FAA, to operate its SkyLink C-Band Command and Control (C2) radios for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Emerging Technology test site. 

The radios operating on aviation-protected C-band frequencies will be 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.   With the approval and previous uAvionix BVLOS Waiver, businesses seeking to use aviation-protected C-band and other radio networks, such as LTE, for assured Control and Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) can successfully develop, test and implement solutions for scalable business initiatives such as package delivery and medical resupply.

Ryan Reed, General Manager, uAvionix said

“In a short period of time – measured in months – uAvionix has achieved multiple BVLOS waivers and FCC approval for operation of C-band radios for critical command and control function. Our continued success is a testament to the strength of our efforts with the Choctaw Nation and speaks volumes about our aviation-grade products and services. The SkyLine cloud-based network control and associated SkyLink and SkyStation radios are the first certifiable C2 network purpose built for BVLOS operations.”

uAvionix first obtained FAA approval to test its C-band C2 radios for compliance with RTCA DO-362A and an eventual TSO-C213a in Bigfork, Montana, and then at the Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS) in August 2021. 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 successful FCC approval for use of the SkyLink C-band radios at the Choctaw Nation significantly advances riskier BVLOS operations by enabling essential C2 infrastructure to operate on aviation-protected spectrum along-side other frequencies such as LTE and Satcom to deliver reliable command and control capabilities. Utilizing the protected spectrum guards against interference or tampering and enables a consistent, assured connection to the aircraft that meets safety requirements.

The SkyLink Airborne Radios, SkyStation Ground Radios and SkyLine cloud-based link management system are deployed at the Choctaw Nation’s 44,500+ acre Emerging Aviation Technology Center. Four (4) independent C-band radios are networked together through SkyLine. The system continually monitors each link to optimally determine the best link for reliable command and control and ensure make-before-break connections when switching between each available ground station.  Additionally, Detect and Avoid (DAA) data from terrestrial sensors is delivered through the C-band radios.

James Grimsley, Executive Director of Advanced Technology Initiatives with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma:

“uAvionix is a phenomenal commercial partner in our Choctaw Nation emerging aviation activities, and we are always impressed by their pace of innovation. This latest FCC approval is a critical step for the industry as we move toward ubiquitous BVLOS operations, and will not only support our Choctaw Nation efforts, but also the industry at large.”

Interested businesses attempting to scale BVLOS operations should contact the Choctaw Nation and uAvionix to support implementation and scaling of uncrewed aerial system (UAS) operations with multiple C2 links including aviation protected C-band.

uAvionix is a Member of ARPAS-UK

19 June 2023

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Talk To The Eye In The Sky: Cambridge Wireless Event

29 March 2023: 10.30am – 4pm

Location: TTP, Melbourn Science Park, Melbourn, SG8 6EE

Join the Radio Technology SIG at their next in-person event where they will explore the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles industry, to establish the current landscape, the technology needs to evolve and hear from successful examples of UAVs being deployed in real-life.

More Info & to Register

About:

From Tanzania to Scotland, demonstration missions have shown that UAVs can provide vital services such as delivering medical supplies to regions with limited road infrastructure and inspection of assets in locations hazardous to humans. Being able to do Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) safely and securely is key to make this commercially successful and enable large scale operations. Several pieces of the puzzle need to align to make this commercially successful – ranging from reliable command and control; means to integrate safely with airspace via various layers of deconfliction; optimising for size, weight, and cost to improve uptake; and close integration with enterprise or appropriate use-case workflows.

At this event, you will hear from various stakeholders on their perspective of where the industry is, how technology needs evolve and hear some successful examples of these being deployed in real-life.

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uAvionix to provide ADS-B Obstruction Beacons for gliding, hang gliding, paragliding and model flying sites in large scale UK trials

uAvionix today announced its participation in a Civil Aviation Authority endorsed large-scale trial using ground-based ADS-B obstruction beacons operating on 978MHz Universal Access Transceiver (UAT) in the UK. A first-ever trial to use ADS-B to enhance safety of glider, hang gliding, paragliding, and model flying operations, the trials will commence in the autumn of 2022 at various sites throughout the UK, supported by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Airspace Modernisation Strategy (AMS).

Collision risks associated with hazardous overflight of winch launch gliding sites are well known to operators, yet frequent incidents continue to be reported. As part of the AMS, the CAA is seeking to implement measures to mitigate this and similar risk utilizing underutilized 978Mhz spectrum, commonly used in the USA as a secondary ADS-B frequency and for Traffic Information System Broadcast (TIS-B) and Flight Information System – Broadcast (FIS-B).

For more information on the project, what clubs are participating & to provide feedback

As the global market leader in UAT ADS-B devices, uAvionix is supporting the trials by providing purpose-built powered obstruction beacons that will be placed at 13 club sites throughout the UK, enabling the sites to be visualized when operational on any Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) utilizing ADS-B IN devices such as the uAvionix skyEcho2 and ForeFlight Sentry. The obstruction beacons will be switched on and broadcast only when flying activities are underway at the participating club sites.

The project will trial new airspace safety functionality built upon ground-based ADS-B obstruction beacons broadcasting on 978MHz UAT ADS-B protocols. Approved by the CAA, the project will be undertaken between September 1st and October 31st, 2022. The trials are a collaboration between uAvionix, the CAA, Association Head Office and member clubs of the British Gliding Association (BGA), British Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association (BHPA), and the British Model Flying Association & Large Model Association (BMFA & LMA).

“The trial of functionality such as ADS-B Obstruction Beacons helps us understand and evaluate the benefits of deploying digital Flight Information Services as part of the Airspace Modernisation Strategy” said Stuart Lindsey, Head of Airspace Modernisation Strategy at Civil Aviation Authority, “We are pleased to fund this trial via the Airspace Modernisation Strategy Support Fund (AMSSF) and that uAvionix have chosen to work with some of our key General Aviation stakeholders to improve the promulgation and awareness of their activities at the trial locations, to deliver a safety benefit.”

“The BGA has for several years recorded and raised awareness of hazardous overflights of glider winch launch sites by aeroplanes and helicopters” said Pete Stratten, CEO of the BGA, “These sites are depicted on ½ mil charts and described within the AIP. Participating in the obstruction beacon trial will contribute to an understanding of the effectiveness of using technology to highlight a fixed airspace hazard during flight and in doing so reduce mid-air conflict risk. It is important too that the equipment is reliable and affordable. We’re pleased to be working with others to identify the wider benefits of voluntary equipage of electronic conspicuity”.

Suitably equipped General Aviation pilots flying within the vicinity of these Beacons will be alerted in real-time to these aerial activities to enhance their situational awareness and safety. Other airspace users and interested parties may also benefit. The project will be seeking feedback from all relevant stakeholders through the uAvionix website, where future updates will be posted. Please see here: https://uavionix.com/projects/UKObsBeacon

About uAvionix Corporation

uAvionix was founded in 2015 with the mission of bringing safety solutions to the unmanned aviation industry to aid in the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). A fundamental principle of that mission is to provide solutions that allow all airspace users a common situational awareness of the airspace. Through the evolution of our company, we pioneered and now offer low SWaP, TSO-certified and uncertified ADS-B and GPS solutions for General Aviation (GA), Airport Surface Vehicles, and the UAS markets. uAvionix consists of an unparalleled engineering and management team with a unique combination of experience encompassing avionics, surveillance, airport services, UAS aircraft development, radio frequency (RF), and semiconductor industries. To learn more about uAvionix manned and unmanned products, please visit: www.uavionix.com

Follow uAvionix on Twitter: www.twitter.com/uAvionix

Follow uAvionix on Facebook: www.facebook.com/uavionix/

uAvionix Media Contact:

[email protected]

1 September 2022

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First Flights of Dragon Drone at Snowdonia Aerospace Centre

Snowdonia Aerospace is pleased to announce the successful first flights of their new Dragon drone at the Snowdonia Aerospace Centre, Llanbedr, last week.

Working in partnership with SwiftFlight Avionics and supported by Innovate UK Future Flight Challenge grant funding, the Dragon drone will be a major research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) platform for demonstrating the safe integration of drones into UK airspace for regular and routine beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations. Further flight envelope expansion and capability development activities will continue over the summer at the Snowdonia Aerospace Centre (SAC), which offers the only dedicated commercially-run, permanent Danger Area for drone testing in the UK. 

The Dragon drone is equipped with an Echodyne airborne detect-and-avoid radar and Uavionix electronic conspicuity devices and will use the unique test environment at SAC to demonstrate integration with the ground-based Altitude Angel Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system and the potential for further integration with the UK 5G network in partnership with Virgin Media O2.

The Dragon also has the capacity to accommodate a further 5kg mass / 10 litres volume of third party payloads either in the nose or in a ventral pod for experimental test purposes. The maximum take-off weight is 55kg and endurance for RDT&E activities will be 2 to 4 hours depending on payload. 

As well as the necessary technical developments to ensure safe BVLOS operation, Snowdonia Aerospace is also working with NHS Wales and a number of blue light and emergency services (including mountain rescue) to establish how drones can effectively contribute to supporting / working in parallel with these services whilst also delivering economic and societal benefit across Wales and beyond. 

Lee Paul, Chief Executive Officer of Snowdonia Aerospace, said: 

This is a great milestone passed and we look forward to regular BVLOS flights from later this month and engaging with others companies / operators who may wish to test their equipment /payloads along with taking advantage of our unique new Danger Area at the Snowdonia Aerospace Centre.

Snowdonia Aerospace is an ARPAS-UK Member.