uAvionix Partners with FAA to Propel BVLOS Operations

uAvionix is set to enhance the commercial deployment of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) within the National Airspace System (NAS) through a new contract with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

objective of the Contract

The Broad Agency Declaration (BAA) contract focuses on creating robust Command and Control (C2) interaction systems for extended Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, notably in challenging environments.

Collaboration with University of Alaska fairbanks

In partnership with the University of Alaska Fairbanks UAS Test Site, uAvionix will utilize its Link Executive Manager (LEM) to integrate LTE, Iridium SATCOM, and C-Band communication links. This integration aims to ensure consistent and reliable command and control during long-distance BVLOS flights along an Alaskan pipeline.

Current Challenges in BVLOS Operations

Presently, BVLOS flights in the National Airspace require FAA waivers or exemptions, typically depending on a single active C2 link and one backup link. However, the rugged terrain of Alaska can severely affect the reliability of both primary and backup links, complicating the risk assessment necessary for BVLOS approval and potentially leading to mission failures due to lost connections.

Innovative Solutions for Enhanced Communication

Working alongside the FAA, uAvionix aims to develop a system that combines cellular networks, Iridium SATCOM, and aviation-protected C-Band into a reliable C2 communication framework. This system will feature multiple concurrent links that utilize frequency and path diversity to reduce the risk of lost connections in difficult terrains.

Seamless communication management

The Link executive Manager (LEM) will oversee this system via the SkyLine cloud-based platform, facilitating automatic and smooth transitions between communication channels to ensure optimal connectivity, nonetheless of ground conditions.

Testing in Challenging Environments

Test flights are scheduled to occur at the Alaska UAS test site,where achieving link and path diversity is particularly challenging due to limited cellular coverage,high costs of tower installations,and mountainous landscapes that obstruct radio signals.

Expert Insights on the Initiative

“Relying on a single communication link or common infrastructure is often impractical in remote and rugged areas. Establishing multiple, seamless connections to the aircraft from both airborne and ground-based systems enhances safety and versatility, which are crucial for executing these complex operations,” stated Cyriel Kronenburg from uAvionix.

“Conducting flights over extended distances with numerous transitions between communication paths and frequencies will generate valuable data to support FAA regulations and reinforce the notion that UAS technology can be safely and economically utilized across diverse terrains and infrastructures.”

Commitment to Advancing UAS Operations

Christian Ramsey, managing Director for Uncrewed Aviation at uAvionix, remarked, “Our history of successful collaboration with the FAA is well-established. This contract builds on that foundation and underscores our dedication to advancing BVLOS operations within the industry.”

“By developing the Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP) infrastructure, we are enhancing the commercial feasibility of UAS operations while ensuring safety and efficiency for operators.”

A Step Forward for BVLOS operations

This initiative marks a important advancement towards normalizing BVLOS operations in the UAS sector. It follows closely after uAvionix received an FAA exemption to conduct BVLOS flights on the Vantis network,which leverages the uAvionix C2CSP infrastructure to integrate various technologies for mission control and detect-and-avoid capabilities.