The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently approved UPS’ Flight Forward division and uAvionix Corp to conduct drone operations beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS). This pivotal decision can potentially revolutionize various industries, including package delivery, as it marks a step towards more automated, longer-distance drone flights.
Drones for delivery have been limited by regional regulations thus far. Similar to other regulatory laws that have to catch up with tech, drones are finally receiving some good news.
More drones in the air
The announcement follows the recent approval granted to Phoenix Air Unmanned on August 24th. Another company Zipline International, is still eagerly awaiting the FAA’s verdict on their application.
These approvals open up new avenues for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to take on diverse tasks, such as aerial inspections, photography, and deliveries, with heightened autonomy.
In its press release, the FAA emphasized that the data collected during these operations will be crucial in shaping the agency’s ongoing policy and rulemaking endeavors. “The FAA’s long-term goal is to safely integrate drones into the National Airspace System rather than set aside separate airspace exclusively for drones,” the statement reads.
The path to flight
Before these recent approvals, the FAA mandated the presence of ground-based spotters to ensure that drones did not inadvertently cross paths with other aircraft or encounter obstacles during BVLOS flights. This requirement was a crucial safety measure but also presented logistical challenges.
With UPS and uAvionix now cleared for extended drone operations, the FAA is taking a significant step toward establishing a framework of regulations that will govern the operation of drones in shared airspace.
This development holds promise for industries that plan to harness drone technology for various applications, from efficient package deliveries to vital aerial inspections.
Walmart leading the retail pack
Walmart Inc. has managed to bolster its drone delivery services by collaborating with Alphabet Inc.’s Wing unit. The retail giant has set up operations at two of its Dallas stores to facilitate the longest drone deliveries to date.
Under this partnership, Wing’s advanced drones can transport food and household essentials up to six miles from Walmart’s retail locations in Dallas, Texas. Both have implemented cutting-edge technology that allows for remote monitoring and operation, eliminating the need for pilots to be physically stationed at stores or customer residences.
As the drone ecosystem continues to evolve, these recent approvals signify a progressive stride towards a future where autonomous UAVs play an integral role in our daily lives, contributing to the integration of such technology into industry and society.
