Discussions

Hello-

I'm doing some research and currently reading this opinion piece:

http://www.suasnews.com/2012/03/13397/the-law-and-operating-unmanned-aircraft-in-the-u-s-national-airspace-system/

I wonder if there are any scripts developed for rotorcraft that when engaged might immediately fly from higher altitudes to a safe low altitude?

My thinking is simply this:  If a craft with an FAA COA is allowed to fly above the 400' limit - say, 1500' and loiter... the COA states that the craft could technically be in compliance if it is visible to the operator.

However, if another GA aircraft flew nearby, how could a ground based pilot get an autopiloted loitering rotorcraft to the ground (or slightly above) as quickly (and safely) as possible upon seeing or hearing a GA craft nearby?

Essentially: is there a "get the heck out of here" script or capability currently?  I suppose the same question could be applied to fixed-wing autonomous craft, too.

My suspicion is that the FAA might not have enough information about what could be possible from a programmatic perspective for unmanned craft inasmuch as "seek safety from GA crafts" could be applied.  It's obviously a big grey area right now, but is anyone working on the "yeah, we can do that" possibilities for 400'+ flying?

Thanks in advance,

jake