What is UAS?
Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) - are air crafts and equipment that are operated remotely. They have long expanded from military missions as many hobbyists enjoy the convenience of their many functions. UAS has three components:
- Human-Operated control system
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
- Command and Control (C2) system
Significance
Unmanned aircraft systems technology, applications, and capabilities continue to grow dramatically due to low cost, ease of use, and practical utility. U.S. policymakers identify key advantages for these mission essential tools including: no human limitations and the aircrafts can remain airborne for long durations. Manufacturers continues to improve UAS power, payload, cargo configuration, weight enhancements, endurance, and autonomous pre-programmed operations.
Common Functions
- Surveillance
- Emergency Response
- Facilitation of communications and broadcast
- Small package and bulk cargo transport
- Visual, spectral and thermal examination of structures
- Monitoring of linear network infrastructure such as railway tracks, power lines and pipelines
- Photography and cartographic survey
- Agricultural fertilizer and chemical application
- Aircraft external maintenance inspection
- Atmospheric research
Regulations
Appropriate operational procedures are put in place to protect the nation's aviation system for commercial and private use of UAS devices. Visit faa.gov for more information.