Unmanned Systems

Unmanned Systems

Grassroots Coalition Forms to Advocate for Continued Use of Essential Ag Tech

Kim Stevens

In response to proposed legislation aimed at banning drones manufactured by Chinese companies, a coalition of agricultural spray drone distributors is banding together to form a grassroots industry group. This coalition, consisting of Agri Spray Drones, Bestway Ag, Drone Nerds, HSE-UAV, Pegasus Robotics, and Rantizo intends to represent, protect, and advocate for the interests of the agricultural industry in the use of spray drone technology.

Legislative Concerns

Recent legislative proposals, like H.R 2864 which passed in the House version of the NDAA, seek to ban drones manufactured by Chinese companies due to security concerns. However, the proposals currently being presented and discussed fail to consider other methods to address security concerns while also avoiding the significant impact such bans would have on the agricultural industry.

The Vital Role of Spray Drones in Agriculture

Spray drones are an indispensable part of modern agricultural technology for several reasons:

1. Optionality in Aerial Application:

In an industry facing increasing demand for aerial applications combined with a shortage of available plane and helicopter pilots, drones provide a natural and efficient solution. According to survey data collected by coalition members, in 2023 alone, 3.7 million acres were sprayed by drones across 41 states and over 50 types of crops, generating $78.5 million in rural communities.

2. Job Creation in Rural America:

According to Agri Spray Drones CEO Taylor Moreland, “Spray drones create new job opportunities in rural areas where they previously did not exist.” For a reasonable investment, individuals can purchase a spray drone, start a custom application business, and start creating revenue that not only supports their families but also contributes to their local economy.

3. Support for Sustainable Agriculture:

Agricultural spray drone technology provides farmers with additional options for employing precision farming techniques in their operations, helping farmers to reduce crop input usage and increase yield opportunities. By delivering crop protection products precisely when and where they are needed, farmers can more efficiently control weed, pest, and disease pressures.

Addressing Security Concerns

The industry group supports efforts to create cybersecurity standards and appropriate regulations to protect vital data across all drones, regardless of country of origin. By advocating for these measures, the coalition aims to address security concerns while still preserving the technological advancements and economic benefits that spray drones provide to the agricultural sector. This balanced approach enables continued innovation and operational efficiency, ensuring that American farmers can maintain their competitive edge globally.

Pyka Signs SLC Agrícola as Customer for All-Electric Crop Protection Aircraft

Kim Stevens

Pyka, manufacturer of large-scale autonomous electric aircraft for crop protection and cargo transport, has signed a landmark commercial agreement with SLC Agrícola, one of Brazil’s largest agricultural producers, for the delivery of its fully autonomous and 100% electric crop protection aircraft, Pelican Spray.

Pyka Pelican Spray

This marks a significant additional customer engagement for Pyka, furthering its entrance into one of the largest agricultural markets in the world and setting the stage for the expansion of Pelican Spray operations into major row crops, including soybeans, corn, and cotton.

SLC Agrícola operates 1.7 million acres of farmland in Brazil and is a leader in innovative farming practices. The integration of Pelican Spray into its fleet will be tested with the aim of enhancing the company’s operational efficiency, reducing chemical use, and lowering carbon emissions, significantly furthering both its business and sustainability goals.

“We are delighted to work with Pyka and are excited to access the capabilities of Pelican Spray,” said Ronei Sana, SLC Agrícola’s Digital Agriculture Manager. “We have searched the market for an autonomous solution for aerial application that satisfies the requirements of our operation, and Pyka’s product is an ideal platform. As a fixed-wing UAS, Pelican Spray offers a rare combination of useful payload and spray precision that has the potential to reduce our operating costs for aerial application and help us meet our sustainability goals.”

“We are proud to welcome SLC Agrícola into Pyka’s family of customers,” said Volker Fabian, Pyka’s Chief Commercial Officer. “SLC Agrícola is a market leader in Brazil and an ideal partner to harness the capabilities of Pelican Spray. We look forward to seeing positive results as they integrate our aircraft across their operation.”

Microdrones Welcomes Lengemann Corporation to Its Global Distribution Network

Kim Stevens

Microdrones has announced that Lengemann Corporation, a leading supplier of positioning solutions for Construction, Engineering, and Surveying Professionals, has joined the Microdrones distribution network. Lengemann Corporation is now authorized to sell the fully integrated EasyOne Drone LiDAR systems and LP360 3D Point Cloud Software, expanding their offerings in Florida and the Caribbean.

The EasyOne system from Microdrones includes a drone, perfectly integrated LiDAR sensors, LP360 software, workflow, training, and support. The equipment easily packs into a compact case that is easy to transport. All EasyOne systems are made in the U.S. and available in NDAA-compliant versions.

“Adding the Lengemann Corporation to our distribution chain will help expand our coverage and network throughout the state of Florida, ” said Aaron Beach, Western Regional Sales Manager for Microdrones. “Their extensive experience and dedication to customer service are a great match with our values. With their expertise, we are confident that Lengemann will effectively introduce our EasyOne solutions to a wider audience, benefiting surveying and engineering professionals throughout Florida and the Caribbean.”

Mike Woodley, Sales Manager at Lengemann Corporation, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: ” The reputation of the Microdrones products and their fully integrated solutions speak for themselves. The EasyOne will help enable our customers to create powerful data deliverables like 3D point clouds and orthomosaics. These systems will help our clients collect data efficiently and safely while cutting costs and saving time.”

Lengemann Corporation has been in business for over 60 years and is known for its exceptional customer service and technical support. They are the only authorized Topcon and Sokkia master repair facility in Florida and operate one of the largest privately-owned GPS networks in the U.S., known as L-Net. Their new onsite training facility is equipped to meet all survey and machine control needs.

“The addition of LP360 software to our product lineup is a significant advantage for our customers,” added Woodley. “It’s one of the premier software solutions for analyzing and creating point clouds for LiDAR and photogrammetry. It’s intuitive and easy to use, which we believe will greatly enhance our customers’ workflows.”

The EasyOne systems from Microdrones are compact, optimized, lighter, safer, and more efficient. These fully integrated systems make it easier than ever for users to plan, fly, collect, process, and visualize geospatial data projects. Lengemann Corporation’s knowledgeable staff is committed to meeting and exceeding customer needs and expectations daily.

“We are excited about this new partnership,” said Woodley. “Combining Microdrones professionalism and cutting-edge technology with our customer service and expertise will create a tremendous opportunity for our clients.”

North Carolina Drone Knowledge Test and Permit Repealed

Kim Stevens

The North Carolina General Assembly has enacted House Bill 198, effectively removing the state uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operator knowledge test and permit. This significant legislative change is largely due to the dedicated efforts of AeroX and its members, who have been instrumental in educating lawmakers about the benefits of drones and fostering a favorable business environment for advanced drone operations in North Carolina.

The North Carolina UAS knowledge test and operator permit was first introduced into law in 2014 in Session Law 2014-100, along with other laws focused on the criminal use of drones. The law requires both state/local government and commercial drone operators to pass the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) UAS Operator Knowledge Test. Commercial drone operators are also required to obtain the NCDOT UAS permit. This process could be completed online, and the permit would need to be renewed every two years.

Basil Yap, President of AeroX, recalls the early discussions surrounding the law. In 2014, as a state employee with the NCDOT Division of Aviation, Yap attended legislative Transportation Committee meetings. “There were significant concerns about the security and privacy of drone usage and a belief that the FAA was not moving quickly enough to capitalize on business opportunities,” Yap said. “One legislator even suggested that if the FAA wasn’t going to create a drone pilot license, the state would help push them along by passing our own.” In 2014, the FAA did not have a drone operator license in place. It wasn’t until 2016, with the introduction of the Small UAS Rule (Part 107), that the FAA began issuing the Remote Pilot Certificate.

From 2016 to 2020, Yap served as UAS Program Manager at NCDOT, where he helped establish the online knowledge test and permitting process. In addition, he led North Carolina’s participation in the FAA UAS Integration Pilot Program. During this time, drone operators frequently questioned why North Carolina was the only state with a UAS permit, viewing it as a redundant requirement to FAA’s Remote Pilot Certificate.

Since its formation in 2021, AeroX has prioritized regular engagement with the General Assembly to advocate for the drone industry. Last year, AeroX hosted a UAS Legislative Day on the Halifax Mall next to the General Assembly building, allowing legislators to observe drone operations and interact with manufacturers and operators. This spring, AeroX hosted the state legislature’s UAS Caucus at its Winston-Salem office, providing a platform for drone operators to discuss their expanding operations.

House Bill 198, titled DOT Legislative Changes, was first introduced in February of 2023 but was not sent to the Governor’s desk until May of 2024. Due to an issue regarding billboards, right-of-ways, and the cutting of certain trees, Gov. Cooper vetoed the bill. The House and Senate both overrode Gov. Cooper’s veto, thus codifying the bill into law on June 27th, 2024. The new law repeals Article 10 of Chapter 63 of the state’s General Statutes, which includes the requirements for a UAS knowledge test and a NC UAS Permit for commercial drone operators. The repeal will become effective on December 1, 2024.

FlightHorizon Selected to Provide Airspace Management and Detect-and-Avoid for Osage Nation’s Skyway36 Droneport

Kim Stevens

Vigilant Aerospaces’ FlightHorizon airspace management and uncrewed traffic management (UTM) system has been selected as the airspace management system for the Skyway36 droneport in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Skyway36 is a leading droneport in the United States and serves as an “airport for drones” and for larger Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft, like air taxis.

Vigilant Aerospace is a provider of multi-sensor detect-and-avoid and airspace management software for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM). With FlightHorizon, Skyway36 will be able to track and coordinate drones, detect intruding aircraft and provide a safe environment for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flight of drones, which is essential for growing the UAS industry.

Skyway36 is the Osage Nation’s aerospace innovation zone, providing dedicated facilities for UAS flights. It is designed to support advanced air mobility and drone missions including survey drones, first responder drones, autonomous delivery aircraft and other missions. The facility includes a state-of-the-art UAS indoor test facility operated by Windshape, hangar and office space under development, a 3,000-foot runway suitable for larger, fixed-wing drones, and a certified helipad for both conventional helicopters and for new electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs).

“Skyway36 is working to provide and build premium infrastructure and this partnership with Vigilant Aerospace and its FlightHorizon system helps to keep us at the forefront of the industry. As an officially designated Tech Hub by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the Tulsa region and our droneport can play an important role in the national development of autonomous systems,” said Russell Goff, CEO of Osage, LLC.

The site is managed by DronePort Network, under contract to Osage LLC and is the first commercial node on the Skyway Range Flight Corridor, a 114-nautical mile drone corridor and one of the most ambitious advanced air mobility projects in the nation. Skyway Range consists of four major nodes for autonomous flight testing along multiple routes and is supported in part by a grant from the US Economic Development Administration.

“As autonomous flight gathers momentum, we’re seeing a growing number of flights from droneports like Skyway36,” said Craig Mahaney, CEO of DronePort Network. “To scale safely and successfully, we must ensure an environment designed to enable long-distance drone flights, air traffic monitoring and advanced safety systems. Vigilant Aerospace’s FlightHorizon allows Skyway36 to provide these services and to attract more operators by providing a world-class facility and technology for a wide variety of uncrewed flight operations and testing.”

Kraettli L. Epperson, CEO of Vigilant Aerospace noted that Skyway36 provides a significant capability not just regionally but nationally for furthering autonomous flight Installing FlightHorizon at one of the nation’s first commercial droneports is a milestone for the industry and helps to set the standard for shared infrastructure at droneports everywhere. “Being the first node on the Skyway Range Flight Corridor also provides significant opportunities to make Skyway36 and this region a national proving ground.”

FlightHorizon is based on two NASA patents and fuses data from a range of sources including aircraft transponders, radar, drone autopilots, and live FAA data to create a single picture of airspace around a drone. The software predicts trajectories and provides standards-compliant avoidance commands to the remote pilot.

BRINC Announces First Ever Purpose-Built 911 Response Drone

Kim Stevens

BRINC has unveiled the first ever purpose-built hardware designed for Drone as First Responder (DFR) operations. BRINC’s integrated DFR solution marks a major advancement in drone technology, featuring the cutting-edge Responder drone and Responder Station charging nest. The drones are engineered to reach 911 calls in under 70 seconds, providing critical situational awareness to first responders before they arrive on scene. They are also capable of delivering life-saving medical supplies, reducing manned response times, and addressing low-priority calls without the need to dispatch personnel. As municipalities experience police staffing shortages, BRINC’s DFR solution can resolve approximately 25% of calls for service without dispatching officers.

“The launch of BRINC DFR marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of emergency response. Our DFR initiative is set to revolutionize the public safety landscape by empowering first responders with capabilities that significantly improve emergency response times and outcomes.” said Blake Resnick, BRINC Founder & CEO.

Responder: Reimagine Emergency Response

BRINC’s American-made Responder drone can support first responders as part of an agency’s automated DFR system, a patrol-led DFR approach, or as a manually deployed drone. The Responder can also deliver a wide selection of life-saving payloads, such as EpiPens, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), personal floatation devices (PFDs), and naloxone (Narcan). Its two-way communication capability facilitates instruction and can enhance de-escalation during tense confrontations.

Responder is equipped with a remarkable camera payload, providing a detailed view to public safety personnel once it arrives on-scene. It features a Full HD, 40x zoom visual camera array, and a 640px thermal sensor. This industry-leading thermal imager can aid firefighters in identifying hotspots during structure fires and help search and rescue teams locate missing or injured individuals. Responder also has an emergency response vehicle livery, custom agency markings, red and blue lights, and an integrated siren to make it identifiable as a public safety asset.

Responder Station: Deploy Drones in Under 5 Seconds

Complementing the Responder is the Responder Station, a robotic charging nest designed to be placed throughout communities for fast response times. Responder Station ensures that Responders remain operational, protected from weather, and ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. Together, the Responder and Responder Station enable sub-5-second drone deployment.

Responder drones return to the nearest available Station after the completion of each mission to charge from 0 to 100% in just 40 minutes.

BRINC LiveOps: Unified Drone Operations Software

This entire solution is driven by BRINC LiveOps, a drone operations software platform available on all modern web browsers. This allows for easy access on mobile devices, tablets, mobile data computers, and at real-time crime centers.

LiveOps provides:

  • Teleoperations: Fly Responder drones from anywhere in the world on a browser tab with your arrow keys.
  • Manage District-Wide Deployments: View calls for service and available drones, select a station to launch from, and quickly deploy drones to emergencies.
  • 2-Way Communications: Provide life-saving instruction and de-escalate critical situations.
  • Augmented Reality Overlays: Contextualize live feeds by overlaying map data on drone video feeds.
  • Integrated Airspace Awareness: View local weather information, ADS-B data, ground-based radar detections, FAA map tiles, and more to deconflict airspace.
  • Transparency Portal: Provide communities with flight logs and a program dashboard to promote transparency.
  • Integrate with Existing Public Safety Infrastructure: Connect with existing computer-aided dispatch (CAD), digital evidence management systems (DEMS), 911 call systems, and more.

Increasing Need for Emergency Response Drones Drives Industry Growth

Earlier public safety drone systems have been disjointed, piecing together generic hardware and software from various companies, resulting in suboptimal systems. This new all-in-one solution from BRINC makes DFR operations more effective and easily accessible to every agency in America.

“Our fully integrated approach with Responder, Responder Station, and BRINC LiveOps sets us apart in the industry, enabling seamless coordination and rapid response in times of crisis.” said Don Redmond, BRINC Vice President of Advanced Public Safety Projects, “We anticipate that our innovative solution will not only enhance operational efficiency, but save lives.”

BRINC has a strong history of serving public safety agencies across the United States. More than 500 agencies already use BRINC devices such as the LEMUR 2 or BRINC Ball, and over 150 agencies are moving towards city-wide 911 response drone deployments with BRINC, with four signed to begin BRINC DFR programs by the end of this year.

For more information on Responder, please visit https://brincdrones.com/responder

For more information on Responder Station, please visit https://brincdrones.com/responder-station

For more information on LiveOps, please visit https://brincdrones.com/liveops

Drone Express Advances Hard Tech with Autonomous Drone Delivery Solutions

Kim Stevens

Drone Express, a trailblazer in autonomous drone delivery technology, says it is redefining the logistics landscape with its groundbreaking delivery solutions. In a release, the company states that by integrating cutting-edge engineering with advanced AI, Drone Express exemplifies the essence of Hard Tech, delivering real-world impact through innovative technology.

Advancing Autonomous Delivery

Drone Express’s autonomous drones are a significant advancement in logistics. They can navigate complex environments and deliver packages with precision and efficiency. These drones use advanced AI algorithms and real-time data processing to autonomously plan routes, avoid obstacles, and execute deliveries seamlessly. This transformative technology addresses today’s logistical challenges and paves the way for a more connected and efficient future.

Beth Flippo, CEO of Drone Express, shares: “Our autonomous drone delivery solutions are a testament to the power of Hard Tech. By merging sophisticated hardware with intelligent software, we’re creating delivery systems that are not only efficient but also revolutionary. This innovation is more than just technology; it transforms how goods are moved and enhances modern logistics capabilities.”

Hard Tech: The Fusion of Innovation and Engineering

Hard Tech is characterized by substantial engineering challenges and the creation of groundbreaking physical products. Drone Express’s autonomous drones exemplify this by integrating state-of-the-art hardware with intelligent systems. This combination of robust engineering and innovative technology underscores Drone Express’s commitment to solving complex problems through advanced solutions.

A Vision for the Future

Drone Express is dedicated to addressing the immediate needs of the logistics industry and laying the groundwork for future innovations. The company is focused on Hard Tech and is committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. They aim to drive advancements shaping the future of autonomous systems and logistics.

FAA Reauthorization Act Extends ASSURE UAS Program and Establishes ASSUREd Safe

Kim Stevens

The FAA Reauthorization Act 2024 marks a significant milestone in the advancement of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) technology and safety. Among its provisions, the extension of the Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research Excellence (ASSURE), FAA’s Center of Excellence for UAS programs, stands out as a crucial initiative driving innovation and collaboration in the UAS industry.

Senator Roger Wicker, the senior senator representing Mississippi and a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, championed this legislation.

“Mississippi State University continues to be a leader in the FAA’s Centers of Excellence program for unmanned aircraft system research,” said U.S. Senator Roger Wicker. “This legislation will keep the university at the epicenter of aviation innovation, and I am proud to have supported it.”

Mississippi State University is recognized as the leading university for the ASSURE program and has played a pivotal role since the program’s foundation.

“I have had the privilege of being involved with the ASSURE program since its inception, and it has been truly remarkable to witness the growth and significant impact the program has had on the UAS industry,” said Dr. David Shaw, Provost and Executive Vice President at Mississippi State University. “From the outset, the program’s mission has been clear: to provide high-quality research and support to autonomy stakeholders, both domestically and internationally, in order to safely and efficiently integrate autonomous systems into the national and international infrastructure.”

Comprised of 29 of the world’s leading research institutions and more than a hundred leading industry and government partners, ASSURE is at the forefront of UAS research and development.  With a comprehensive portfolio spanning from small drones to large-scale UAS, ASSURE members contribute invaluable expertise across various research domains.

The extension of the ASSURE program aligns with the overarching goal of supporting the growth of the UAS market into its multi-billion-dollar potential. By conducting research that prioritizes safety, effectiveness, and efficiency, ASSURE aims to facilitate the seamless integration of UAS alongside manned aircraft worldwide.

“ASSURE is not only about advancing technology, but also about increasing commerce and enhancing overall public safety and benefit,” said Col. Stephen P. Luxion, Ret., Executive Director, ASSURE FAA Center of Excellence for UAS. “As we continue to navigate the complexities of UAS integration, I am thrilled to see the great work of the ASSURE program persist and evolve. Together, we are shaping the future of autonomous systems and paving the way for a safer, more interconnected world.” 

The FAA Reauthorization Act has also established a pivotal credentialing authority within the FAA’s program of record known as ASSUREd Safe. This national credentialing authority, which will be housed at the Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems at Mississippi State University, will provide essential services such as standards development, education, and testing tailored to equip first responders for diverse emergency response operations.

Drone Delivery Canada and Volatus Aerospace Corp. Announce Merger

Kim Stevens

Drone Delivery Canada Corp. and Volatus Aerospace Corp. have announced that they have entered into a business combination agreement to combine the companies in a merger of equals transaction, with the combined company to continue under the name “Volatus Aerospace Corp.”

Under the Merger, which the boards of directors of both companies have approved, the combined company will be led by a board of directors and management team of experienced drone technology industry and business leaders, bringing together the cultures, strengths, and capabilities of both companies. By joining forces, Volatus and Drone Delivery Canada plan to immediately begin commercialization efforts, which is intended to enhance shareholder value by forging a robust, financially sound enterprise focused on immediate and long-term revenue with a clear path to sustainable growth and market leadership. Subject to customary closing conditions, the Merger is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024.

Pursuant to the Merger, Volatus shareholders will receive 1.785 (the “Exchange Ratio”) Drone Delivery Canada voting common shares (each, a “Drone Delivery Canada Share”) for each Volatus common share (a “Volatus Share”) held (the “Consideration”). Upon closing of the Merger, existing shareholders of Volatus and Drone Delivery Canada will each own approximately 50% of the combined company (based on the current issued and outstanding shares of each of the companies).

Strategic Rationale

To date, Drone Delivery Canada has invested $40 Million into building strong, competitive drone cargo solutions that are now ready to go to market. By focusing on drone services, training, and equipment sales, Volatus is well-positioned to leverage these technologies and bring them to market. As regulations begin to enable the commercialization of drone cargo and remote drone operations, Volatus has been planning to commercialize its efforts in Advanced Air Mobility, adding to its go-to-market strategy. Without technology such as Drone Delivery Canada’s remote operations center; Flyte management software; DroneSpot infrastructure; and cargo-focused, commercialized aircraft, the path to competitively enter the Advanced Air Mobility market would require significant research and development (“R&D”) investment for any drone-based services company. The combined company, with its shared decades of technology and aviation experience as well as strong financial and operating metrics, is expected to have a leading presence globally as a diversified technology and service leader to drive both short- and long-term growth opportunities in existing and new markets. Further, it is expected that the combined company will be able to achieve material cost synergies to support near-term profitability and enhance its margin profile as its revenue profile continues to grow.

Steve Magirias, Chief Executive Officer of Drone Delivery Canada, commented, “Drone Delivery Canada has been searching for the right partner to join us on our growth journey and we are confident that Volatus is a great fit, from a management vision point of view, industry know-how, and experience. We were initially attracted to Volatus’ strong reputation in the industry, admirable fiscal management through a challenging capital markets environment, and vision towards generating diversified lines of revenue.”

Ian McDougall, Chair of Volatus board of directors, commented, “We are thrilled to announce this transformative merger with Drone Delivery Canada. Merging with Drone Delivery Canada will enhance our ability to offer cutting edge technology and services to our clients and help position the combined company as a global leader. Volatus sees a tremendous opportunity to commercialize Drone Delivery Canada’s advanced technologies, through our network of partners, Fortune 500, international mining, oil and gas, and utilities clients, further positioning the combined company as a global leader in drone technologies and services.”

Glen Lynch, Chief Executive Officer, President and Director of Volatus, commented, “We believe that the strategic impact will be significant right out of the gate, and allow us to drive innovative technology advancements and offer our clients industry leading technology and service.”

Leadership and Governance

Following the closing of the Merger, the board of directors of the combined company will consist of seven (7) directors, comprised of three (3) directors from Volatus including Ian McDougall who will act as the Chair of the combined company, two (2) independent directors from Drone Delivery Canada, and two (2) independent directors to be mutually agreed upon at a future date. Management of the combined company will include executives from both Volatus and Drone Delivery Canada, with Volatus’ current Chief Executive Officer, President and Director, Glen Lynch, assuming the role as Chief Executive Officer of the combined company, and Drone Delivery Canada’s current Chief Executive Officer, Steve Magirias, becoming the Chief Operating Officer of the combined company.

Benefits to Drone Delivery Canada Shareholders

  • Pro forma ownership of 50% in the combined company is expected to provide immediate exposure to Volatus’ revenue profile and near-term cash flow generation with attractive long-term growth potential from Drone Delivery Canada’s portfolio of proprietary technology
  • Greater access to new geographies and sectors
  • Enhanced ability to realize value from an existing proprietary drone technology portfolio via a stronger financial position of the combined company, which is expected to achieve profitability in the near-term
  • Accretive to Drone Delivery Canada on key financial and operating metrics
  • Significant value upside as the combined company advances its business plan and achieves profitability
  • Benefits to Volatus Shareholders
  • Pro forma ownership of 50% in the combined company is expected to provide Volatus shareholders exposure to Drone Delivery Canada’s advanced operational and proprietary cargo drone technology and remote operating capabilities to enhance Volatus’ existing service offerings
  • Market expansion opportunity through enhanced geographic diversification, and entrance into new end markets including the emerging cargo sector, which is expected to have significant long-term upside
  • Presents opportunity to leverage the Volatus management team’s strong commercial expertise to ensure optimal commercialization of Drone Delivery Canada’s technology and product portfolio
  • Enhanced capital markets profile, supported by Drone Delivery Canada’s strong shareholder base
  • Significant re-rating potential as the combined company advances its business plan and achieves near-term profitability

NAAA Board Establishes Uncrewed Aerial Application System Committee to Reach All Mediums of Aerial Application

Kim Stevens

The National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) Board of Directors recently voted to establish an Uncrewed Aerial Application System (UAAS) Committee to advise the Association on uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) – or drone – issues. The decision to establish the committee is to ensure the low-altitude airspace is safe for crewed and uncrewed aircraft as the number of UAS in low-altitude airspace grows. The Committee will also advise the NAAA on ways to ensure aerial application regulatory compliance, efficacy and environmental professionalism is achieved throughout crewed and uncrewed aerial application mediums. These goals are shared by both manned/uncrewed aerial application operations and established, licensed drone operations.

According to the FAA, drones are the fastest-growing segment of aviation in the United States. There are nearly 864,000 drones registered with the FAA and over 330,000 certified Remote Pilots and the numbers are projected to continue growing.

“The purpose of the UAAS Committee is to reach the crewed or legacy ag aircraft operations and operators of the new UAS technology on the imperative issues of airspace safety, environmental professionalism, regulatory compliance and aerial application efficacy—issues of mutual interest to both forms of aerial application,” said Andrew Moore, chief executive officer of NAAA. The formation of the UAAS Committee will be balanced between crewed and uncrewed NAAA members and all policies proposed will go to the board for final approval. Committee members are required to be NAAA members, and the committee members will be selected by the NAAA President each year.

UAAS Committee members will recommend to the NAAA Board public policy proposals to enhance the safety of the airspace shared by crewed and uncrewed application aircraft, and also provide input facilitating the development and regulatory use of atmospheric models forecasting the movement of applied materials from both crewed and uncrewed aircraft application systems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined the necessity of such models to analyze the atmospheric movement of registered pesticides applied by UAS, just as it currently does for crewed aerial applications and ground and airblast applications via the AgDRIFT atmospheric model.

UAAS Committee members will also recommend to the NAAA Board and its related foundation—the National Agricultural Aviation Research and Education Foundation (NAAREF)—educational curriculum focused on professionalism, regulatory compliance, aviation safety, application efficacy, and environmental stewardship for the uncrewed aerial application systems community. This curriculum will be considered by NAAA and NAAREF at educational events, the annual NAAA Ag Aviation Expo, and within NAAA and NAAREF publications and virtual mediums, ensuring the highest standards in the industry.