First-of-its-Kind Flight Trials Integrate Uncrewed Aircraft Into Controlled Airspace

A partnership of aviation leaders demonstrates that uncrewed aircraft can be safely integrated into controlled airspace among piloted aircraft through multiple test flights CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND and MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – – A partnership of aviation leaders has successfully completed a first-of-its-kind trial, including a series of test flights aimed at evaluating the operational integration of uncrewed aircraft flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) into controlled airspace. The successful completion of these trial test flights in New Zealand demonstrates that safe, uncrewed flight operations are possible, today, in controlled airspace among other piloted aircraft. Through this trial program, the partnership has established a safe process for uncrewed aircraft to access controlled airspace and created a significant new understanding and capability for commercial autonomous flight operations. The trials offer key insights for regulators and industry players globally to facilitate further testing and inform rule-making. Led by Wisk Aero, the trials included the New Zealand Government and industry partners, including Insitu Pacific as the approved Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operator, the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) as the regulatory observer and Part 102 approver, Airways New Zealand as the air navigation service provider alongside Airways International’s uncrewed traffic management (UTM) … Continue reading First-of-its-Kind Flight Trials Integrate Uncrewed Aircraft Into Controlled Airspace