AX Enterprize Appoints Former FAA Leader Abigail Smith as Chief Operating Officer

Abby Smith brings decades of aviation experience and a strong record of advancing drone integration

AX Enterprize, LLC, a leader in advanced aviation technologies and systems integration, has announced the appointment of Abigail “Abby” Smith as its new Chief Operating Officer. Smith’s extensive career in aviation policy and innovation at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) positions her to help AX Enterprize expand its capabilities and strengthen collaboration with the drone industry as new FAA regulations take shape.

A Veteran Leader in Aviation Modernization

Over her more than 35 years in aviation, Smith has played a major role in transforming how aeronautical data is collected and shared. At the FAA, she modernized aeronautical data systems, transitioning from manual chart production to fully digital processes. She also led the Air Traffic Organization Technical Training Modernization program, managing a budget exceeding $100 million and directing hundreds of personnel across air traffic, technical operations, and engineering divisions.

Smith’s tenure at the FAA earned her a reputation as a proponent of the drone industry and airspace modernization. Her deep understanding of both regulatory structures and operational realities makes her well suited to guide AX Enterprize as the agency moves forward with new rules for uncrewed systems and airspace management.

“Abigail’s regulatory expertise, operational leadership, and deep understanding of aviation data systems come at a pivotal moment for AX,” said Pat Baskinger, CEO of AX Enterprize. “As the industry prepares for new FAA rules, her vision and network across government and industry will be instrumental in scaling our operations and driving innovation.”

Building Collaboration Across the Drone Ecosystem

Smith is also known for her leadership in uniting government, industry, and public stakeholders around drone policy. She co-chaired the FAA’s UAS Detection and Mitigation Aviation Rulemaking Committee, working alongside Michael Robbins, CEO of AUVSI, and Matt Cornelius of Airports Council International – North America. The committee represented 56 organizations, from airframe manufacturers and public safety officials to privacy advocates and trade associations, and produced a consensus roadmap for responsible counter-UAS deployment.

Her ability to bring diverse stakeholders together to balance safety, security, and innovation reflects a core strength that aligns with AX Enterprize’s work in uncrewed systems and airspace integration.

Positioning AX Enterprize for Growth

“I am honored to join AX Enterprize at such a transformative time,” Smith said. “AX has been at the forefront of UAS integration and data innovation, and I look forward to working with this incredible team to advance scalable, safe, and innovative aviation solutions.”

With Smith as COO, AX Enterprize plans to expand its operational footprint, strengthen partnerships across regulatory and industry ecosystems, and broaden its portfolio of services. Her appointment underscores AX’s role as a trusted partner to government and commercial organizations working toward the safe integration of drones and data-driven systems into the national airspace.

About AX Enterprize

AX Enterprize, LLC is a nationally recognized systems integrator specializing in uncrewed aerial systems, advanced communications, and real-time data management. Headquartered in Yorkville, New York, AX operates the FAA-designated New York UAS Test Site and leads multiple initiatives to advance uncrewed traffic management (UTM) and the safe integration of drones into the national airspace.

Read more:

• The Regulatory Environment for Counter UAS: a DRONELIFE Exclusive from AUVSI NE
• Women and Drones Names This Year’s Hall of Fame Inductees!
• FAA Shutdown Stalls Drone Progress: Waivers, BVLOS Rulemaking, and Modernization Delayed