The Drone Integration Pilot Program (IPP ) announced this week is all about stretching the envelope of what’s allowed with drone technology. Drone package delivery, flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), night flight, and low altitude operations are some of the projects planned by participants.
All of these operations are relatively new, and not commonly experienced in most communities. There may be some element of risk in all of them – that is, after all, the point of the program: to evaluate the outcomes of these operations and provide feedback on the results and community impact to the the FAA in order to inform future regulations.
That’s why it’s no surprise that Israeli-based drone safety company ParaZero has been named as a partner for several of the IPP teams. Founded in 2014 by a group of avionic professionals, together with veteran drone operators, the company offers innovative autonomous safety systems for commercial drones. They are a sophisticated add-on to drones which include a unique parachute, blossoming upwards and arresting the potential fall of the aircraft – and protecting drone, sensors, and anything below.
Parachutes are one of those elegant solutions that provide a clear safety benefit that comes with easily understandable security for lawmakers and communities. ParaZero’s participation in the IPP projects may make the projects more successful at winning the approval of local governments and the local populace: both important for drone integration.
“Drones are already a growing part of our daily lives. The program will enable policy makers and industry players to learn how we can allow extended operations such as flight over people and beyond visual line of site without compromising on safety,” said Eden Attias, ParaZero’s CEO.
“The data, knowledge and expertise generated from the program will open the skies for the UAS industry which will lead to major economic growth” said Avi Lozowick, ParaZero’s Director of Policy and Strategy. “We look forward to working with our partners on this exciting project and thank the DOT and the FAA for their decision.”
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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