MIT’s MADER Technology Can Reduce the Risk of Drone Collisions
“Sense and avoid” – also known as “obstacle avoidance” – technology has been an important feature of drone design for years. The idea that drones should be able to reduce…
Construction is the #2 Industry for Commercial Application of Drone Technology
Construction is widely considered to be a “traditional” industry, one highly resistant to new technology, including digitization. But, in recent years, construction has emerged as a leading industry for commercial…
Despite the Obstacles, African Drone Fliers Soar to Success
African governments are among the least friendly in the world when it comes to support for drone flying. Several governments ban the practice outright, while others have a cumbersome permit…
Minnesota Police Agencies Look to Drones as Force-Multipliers
Minnesota is considered one of the most “drone friendly” states in the nation. In fact, the Fairfax, VA-based Mercatus Center ranks the Wolverine State #5 on its annual 50-state scorecard.…
NYC Mayor Sends In a Drone to Investigate Last Week’s Parking Garage Collapse
Last week a parking garage collapsed in lower Manhattan, killing one person and injuring several others. Concerned over inspector safety, New York mayor Eric Adams, who has extolled the virtues…
Can “Taxidermy Bird Drones” Pass for Real Birds?
Drones are often considered to be mechanical versions of birds. In fact, drone designers often study real life birds as they seek to equip their UAVs with a deft maneuverability…
Oregon Driver Stranded in Snow Uses Drone to Rescue Himself
What would you do if you found yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere in your car on a snowbound road without cell phone service? Many people, unable to call…
Walmart’s Aerial Package Deliveries in Virginia Finally Take Flight
After months of delay, Walmart has finally begun direct aerial package deliveries at three of its stores in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Customers that live within 0.8 of a mile from…
Is It Immoral to Hunt Animals with Drones?
Forty-five of the 50 US states prohibit the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the purpose of hunting wildlife, including bears, deer and birds. The reasons are largely moral…
Phoenix Air Unmanned and the FAA Drone Waiver Process: A Case Study in Success
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) periodically grants special authorizations – dubbed “waivers” – for drone companies to conduct their flights at long distances without the need for remote piloting. It’s…
