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 and uAvionix have launched the first-ever FCC-authorized operational Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations using C-band frequencies.
This pioneering use of C-band (5060-5091 MHz) is significant because it enables vastly extended drone operational range (over 100 miles) and more reliable command and control links due to higher power transmission, which is not possible with existing, congested frequencies.
The FCC has proposed dedicating this specific C-band spectrum exclusively to Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), making these tests crucial for establishing future industry standards and facilitating widespread commercial drone applications like package delivery and medical resupply by offering enhanced safety and operational integrity.

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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.