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In Flight USA Articles
Embry-Riddle Worldwide Hosted a Small UAS Challenge at Wings Over Houston in November
Enthusiasts of small, unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) had a chance to demonstrate their aircraft and skills during a Small UAS Challenge in Houston Nov. 1 and 2.
Sponsored by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide, the competition was free and open to private, academic and commercial participants. This indoor challenge featured an obstacle course (emphasizing agility and maneuverability), dead lift (lifting ability) and time trial (speed over a closed course). Eligible aircraft, which could be no larger than 36 inches and 10 pounds, required a vertical takeoff and landing.
Embry-Riddle Tests Robotic Security Vehicle at Daytona Beach International Airport
(Embry-Riddle University)A team of Embry-Riddle students and faculty has successfully tested a fully autonomous perimeter-patrol system at Daytona Beach International Airport, believed to be the first use in the United States of a self-guiding ground vehicle for airport security.
Without remote control or other human involvement, a Ford Escape Hybrid equipped with a GrayMatter Autonomous Vehicle System employed GPS and a scanner with 64 lasers to identify its position and its environment.
Embry-Riddle Hosts Historic FAA-Industry Rule-Making Meetings
Group Streamlining Process Used for Certifying New and Modifying Existing Aircraft
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University was the host of two meetings, from Jan. 8-11, of the Federal Aviation Administration FAR Part 23 Aviation Rule Making Committee (ARC) and the ASTM International F44 group charged with developing recommendations that would significantly change aircraft certification regulations for most general aviation aircraft. FAR Part 23 covers aircraft under 19,000 pounds, from simple, piston-powered airplanes to highly complex twin-engine jets.
Members of ARC include representatives of most major airframe and aircraft equipment manufacturers as well as aviation regulators from Brazil, Canada, China, Europe and New Zealand.
The ARC committee has worked since November 2011 to develop performance-based regulations that will be readily adaptable to new technology. The committee aims to enhance safety and encourage innovation by streamlining the process for certifying new technologies, while also lowering the costs of developing new products. It is expected to have final recommendations ready for the FAA to consider later this year.