By Tim Ryan
DroneUp is charting new territory in the world of unmanned aerial systems by achieving a pivotal milestone in the development of BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone operations. The company recently received a letter of acceptance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for their cutting-edge Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) solution, cementing their leadership in drone airspace safety and management. This achievement is not just a step forward for DroneUp, but a leap for the entire Hampton Roads innovation ecosystem.
The FAA’s acceptance of DroneUp’s UTM solution represents the maturity and operational readiness of their technology. The UTM system focuses on sharing airspace safely among unmanned aircraft, a necessity for the growing field of commercial drone delivery. Unlike other attempts to reinvent airspace management, DroneUp’s UTM applies proven technologies in a way that leverages modern software practices, automated data exchange, and innovative governance models. After years of rigorous testing and collaboration with government bodies, DroneUp’s success is a testament to both innovation and resilience.
This achievement builds on a series of impressive developments for DroneUp in 2024. Earlier in the year, the company introduced a suite of proprietary technologies that brought drone delivery costs down to an astounding $7 per package—a milestone aimed at making drone logistics practical and accessible. Additionally, DroneUp’s advancements in scaling operations, such as using automated monitoring systems that allow a single operator to supervise multiple drones, have positioned them as a leader in efficiency. Now, with FAA approval for their UTM solution, DroneUp is poised to make Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations a staple.
Dallas serves as the current proving ground for DroneUp’s UTM deployment, where pioneering drone operators are already reaping the benefits of strategic airspace deconfliction and enhanced digital mapping. These capabilities are not just about ensuring safety—they’re about creating an airspace that works for everyone. The lessons learned from Dallas are expected to resonate far beyond Texas, as DroneUp sets its sights on international scalability, including making Hampton Roads a hub of drone delivery innovation. By building a framework for thoughtful change management and international compatibility, DroneUp is ready to redefine airspace management.
DroneUp’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the field of unmanned aerial systems reflects the spirit of innovation that defines Hampton Roads. The region’s ecosystem—full of trailblazers, forward thinkers, and bold entrepreneurs—stands to benefit enormously as DroneUp brings advanced drone operations closer to everyday reality. As DroneUp continues to collaborate with the FAA and expand its operations, Hampton Roads is poised to remain at the forefront of autonomous technology, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
DroneUp Achieves Part 135 Air Carrier Certification: Advancing Drone Deliveries for Hampton Roads
DroneUp announced another major milestone: they have officially received their Part 135 Air Carrier Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), allowing them to begin customer deliveries by drone. This certification marks a pivotal moment for DroneUp and reflects their unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, and innovative air logistics solutions.
Their journey towards this certification began just a few months ago, spearheaded by the determined efforts of Abigail Smith, who set the path to achieving this goal. The process started in the FAA offices in Washington, D.C., led initially by Kristen Costello, and came to fruition thanks to the tireless efforts of Jonathan Daniels. Just 12 days ago, the FAA completed its final validation test at their operational hub in Murphy, Texas, leading to the successful issuance of the Part 135 certification.
This certification signifies DroneUp’s adherence to the rigorous standards established for aviation operators, cementing their place as one of the leaders in the drone delivery industry. The Part 135 certification allows DroneUp to perform customer deliveries at scale, while maintaining the highest levels of safety and operational excellence. It also opens new opportunities for scaling services not only in Hampton Roads but across the country.
COO Anthony Vittone shared that achieving this milestone would not have been possible without the invaluable collaboration of many partners. “We are deeply grateful to the FAA for their guidance and support throughout this rigorous process. Special thanks also go to AUVSI (Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International) for their partnership and Richard Bland College of William & Mary for providing a testing and training ground that was instrumental to our success”.
The Part 135 certification is more than a regulatory approval; it is a testament to the future of drone logistics and the collaborative spirit that drives innovation. As they take this next step, they’re poised to redefine how packages are delivered, using technology to make logistics more accessible, efficient, and responsive. The journey from those early discussions in Washington, D.C. to validation in Murphy, Texas showcases the resilience and commitment of their team to making this vision a reality.
With this certification, DroneUp is ready to expand its operations, starting with customer deliveries in the Hampton Roads area. They believe that drone delivery is the future of logistics, and their team is committed to bringing that future closer to home. They will continue to work with the FAA and expand their reach, Hampton Roads stands as the epicenter of innovation, propelling the region to the forefront of autonomous delivery technology.
Read more about the FAA’s Part 135 certification process here: FAA Website – Package Delivery by Drone.
