Honeywell Successfully Tests Autonomous Detect-and-Avoid System

The “leap forward in safety” could have far-ranging impacts across aviation, including air taxis.

Wednesday, February 02, 2022 at 04:16 PM ET

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Honeywell said its autonomous radar system kept drones out of danger during the “ultimate game of chicken.” [Courtesy: Honeywell]

Key Takeaways:

Honeywell successfully tested its autonomous RDR-84K detect-and-avoid radar system, enabling a drone to independently detect other UAVs and execute avoidance maneuvers without human intervention.
This compact radar system represents a significant leap for aviation safety, crucial for expanding drone operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
The technology is vital for the future of pilotless aircraft, particularly supporting autonomous operations and reducing pilot workload in the emerging eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) air taxi industry.

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After a series of drone test flights described as the “ultimate game of chicken,” Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) announced success Wednesday with its autonomous detect-and-avoid (DAA) radar system.

The recent tests, located near Phoenix, Arizona, involved a drone piloted by Honeywell’s IntuVue RDR-84K radar system that repeatedly swerved around other UAVs. The system was able to detect airborne traffic and, on its own, decide on a course of action, Honeywell says. Next, the system took over navigation and piloted the drone to safety using its onboard processor.