MissionGO – Airspace Link Collaboration Successful
Two technology companies and a healthcare network have come together to conceptualize and operate a short-term, un-crewed-aircraft-system (UAS) cargo delivery operation.
MissionGo Unmanned Systems—a company with a focus in un-crewed aircraft systems—and Airspace Link—a UAS technology and infrastructure company—in cooperation with Beaumont Health Spectrum Health (BHSH), Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), NextEnergy, and a sounder of Detroit politicians have announced the completion of a successful 10-day flight operation showcasing a real-world UAS transportation program in Southeast Michigan.
Flight-operations occurred in two separate locations, a hospital and a one-mile stretch of railroad-tracks. The former simulated UAS operations at (somewhat predictably) a hospital. The latter location assessed multiple daily UAS deliveries in real-world conditions for purpose of studying variables such as carbon emissions, damage to contents and concept viability versus conventional ground transport. Once compiled and finalized, the results of the assessments will be released to concerned parties.
The UAV used during subject flight-operations was MissionGo’s MGV100– a sub-55 pound all electric single rotor helicopter going through FAA Type, Production, and Part 135 Certification. The test vehicle’s cargo comprised blood samples, containers of water, food packages, and other items/commodities germane to the healthcare industry.
In compliance with FAA regulations, flights were conducted clear of non-crew members and the aircraft was kept within visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times. At the completion of the certification process, the MGV100 aircraft will receive FAA approval to operate over populated areas and, eventually, beyond visual line of sight.
MissionGo President Chris Corgnati said of the undertaking: “If we can fly a human organ and medical supplies safely, we can easily fly a pizza delivery. The success of these flights proves the viability of many types of UAS delivery within a densely-populated urban area.”
Airspace Link Co-Founder & CEO Michael Healander added: “As an FAA approved USS (UAS Service Supplier) it’s our role to support the industry and companies like MissionGO with the technology, data, and services they need to safely conduct their missions. Our AirHub platform is fully integrated with the FAA and State and Local Government agencies to provide the most up to date, authoritative data to pilots to increase situational awareness on the ground and in the air.”
The ten-day operation brought together pilots, community leaders, healthcare professionals, delivery teams, and legislators, all of whom contributed to the undertaking’s success. MissionGO asserts that it looks forward to partnering on future real-world operations and showcasing the capabilities of uncrewed aircraft systems.
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