Reliable Robotics conducts an uncrewed flight of an automated Cessna 208B Caravan in November 2023. [Credit: Reliable Robotics]
Key Takeaways:
While the FAA has progressed with regulations for small drones and powered-lift aircraft, rules for larger uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) are still developing.
NASA has awarded Reliable Robotics a contract to conduct demonstration flights with its automated Cessna Caravan to gather data on large UAS operations.
The flight data will be provided to the FAA, NASA, and standards organizations to inform the development of crucial operational and performance standards for integrating large UAS into commercial airspace.
Reliable Robotics' autonomous system (RAS), backed by military contracts, is being advanced for FAA certification and eventual commercial air cargo deployment.
The FAA has made steady progress on regulations for emerging technologies like small drones, such as Part 107, and powered-lift aircraft, such as the 2024 special federal aviation regulation outlining pilot training and early operational requirements for the category.
Rules for larger uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) remain nebulous. But that could soon change.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
