In the ever-expanding skies where innovation knows no bounds, our journey into the realm of uncrewed aviation is both thrilling and transformative. As we mark Drone Safety Day this weekend, it is not only a day to reflect on the advancements of technology but also to celebrate the heroes who navigate this frontier with diligence and care – our responsible and safe UAS pilots. But being a drone pilot goes beyond just operating a machine; it requires a deep understanding of regulations, protocols, and best practices.
One of the integral members of the NUAIR team, Russell Holland is a seasoned drone pilot at NUAIR and here provides additional insights into the daily rigor of operations. Discussing one of his most challenging flights—a 50-mile journey beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) from Syracuse Airport to Griffiss in Rome, NY—he explains, “as with all flights, everything is based on a safety culture. Planning took place over the course of years, requiring permissions for BVLOS flights in each area and only after extensive testing of radars to ensure no conflict with general aviation flights.” This meticulous approach to planning and execution underscores the depth of commitment to safety at NUAIR.
Reflecting on his comprehensive training with NUAIR, Russell notes, “a lot of what we do is experimental, but all is approached with a ‘crawl, walk, run’ philosophy that minimizes risk.” When asked about handling unexpected situations like sudden weather changes, Russell states, “whether weather or equipment malfunctions, there is always a Plan B… and usually C and D as well. They may include an alternate flight plan, taking manual control of an automated flight, landing in place, or even terminating the flight and losing the drone if that is the only way to ensure safety.”
Russell also contributes valuable insights into the technological advances enhancing safety in drone operations. He notes, “optical sensors have made a big difference in safety, especially for indoor flights. In-flight pilot point-of-view cameras keep improving with huge increases in telephoto clarity, and thermal imaging has added a great deal of capability and new uses for drones.” These technological advancements play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards and expanding the possibilities for drone application.
But safety culture also has to come from the top of an organization. Tony Basile is NUAIR’s Chief of Flight Operations and holds a long-standing commitment to safety. “Every project commences with a comprehensive safety review,” Tony shares. “This entails assessing pilot credentials, scrutinizing the UAS operator manual, and analyzing flight profiles and designated airspace. Prior to each flight, a thorough pre-flight briefing engages all personnel.” In the face of complex environments, safety remains paramount. Tony highlights this ethos, affirming, “Safety is the cornerstone. If any aspect—crew, drone, or weather—poses risk, the NUAIR Mission Commander will veto the flight.”
He reflects on past challenges, often weather-related, underscoring the need for constant vigilance. In one instance, during a large FAA project amid snow showers, meticulous monitoring and consultation ensured that safety prevailed. Through Tony’s insights, we glimpse the unwavering dedication of NUAIR’s pilot corps, where safety is not just a priority but an uncompromisable commitment.
As a commercial pilot, the role of technology in enhancing safety during drone operations is paramount, according to Tony and he highlights the significant contributions of technology in making the industry safer. “Items such as geo-fencing keep drones within desired parameters, agile frequency hopping aids in cyber security, and the use of multiple motors reduces the risk of engine failure,” Tony explains. He emphasizes the importance of these innovations in mitigating risks and ensuring the safe operation of drones in various environments.
Scott Brenton (callsign Gripper), Chief Safety Officer at NUAIR, also stresses the importance of leadership in promoting a culture of safety among drone operators and enthusiasts. He emphasizes that effective safety programs require strong commitment from top leaders, who set the tone and lead by example. Gripper highlights the direct reporting line to the CEO as a key aspect of NUAIR’s safety culture, enabling open communication and swift decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to voice concerns without fear of retribution, ultimately ensuring a highly professional level of safety throughout the organization. Gripper encapsulates this by stating, “Promoting a safety culture starts at the top. The leader must honestly believe that safety is a common core principle of organizational success, and must communicate that, support it, and keep an eye on it.” He adds, “NUAIR propels visionary action, accelerating change and manifesting visionary results. NUAIR leads with the vision of where ‘NEXT’ takes flight.”
As we reflect on the journey of drone safety, it’s clear that the skies are not just a realm of innovation but also a testament to the unwavering commitment of responsible pilots and the collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders. As we celebrate Drone Safety Day 2024, let us reaffirm our dedication to fostering a culture of safety, where innovation and responsibility go hand in hand, ensuring that our skies remain safe for generations to come.