Choctaw Nation UAS Test Site, uAvionix Launch FCC-Authorized Operations

Landmark approval permits BVLOS operations using C-band radio frequencies, which may soon be used solely for UAS.

Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 02:06 PM ET

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At the Choctaw Nation Emerging Aviation Technology Center, UAS take flight under uAvionix control. [Courtesy: uAvionix]

Key Takeaways:

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Beyond Program, in partnership with uAvionix, has launched the first FCC-approved beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations using C-band Command and Control (C2) radios.
This initiative is crucial as the FCC has proposed dedicating C-band frequencies exclusively for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), potentially establishing it as a new industry standard for drone communication.
C-band technology provides vastly extended operational range (exceeding 100 miles) and reduced signal congestion compared to currently used frequencies, which is vital for enabling scalable and safer BVLOS operations.
The CNO test site is now open to businesses, offering a platform to leverage this technology for advanced BVLOS applications and potentially aid in obtaining FAA waivers for services like package or medical deliveries.

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On Native American territory in southeastern Oklahoma, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) stakeholders are charting the future of the industry.

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Beyond Program is one of eight FAA-designated sites dedicated to testing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations. This week CNO and its partner, uAvionix, launched FCC-approved BVLOS operations using uAvionix’s SkyLink C-Band Command and Control (C2) airborne radios.