uAvionix, a leading provider of command, navigation, and surveillance technologies for drones, announced that the Oswego City Police Department’s Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program has received Federal Aviation Administration approval for operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight without Visual Observers. This approval, enabled by the uAvionix Casia G ground-based detect-and-avoid (DAA) system, allows the department to operate small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) for emergency responses, enhancing response times and situational awareness.
The integration of uAvionix’s Casia G product, a sophisticated DAA solution, is a key factor in the success of Oswego’s DFR program. Casia G provides essential airspace awareness, ensuring safe BVLOS operations without the need for human Visual Observers. This technology improves the efficiency and safety of drone operations in emergency situations.
“We wouldn’t be celebrating this milestone today without the unwavering support of the Mayor and Common Council, whose dedication to public safety has paved the way for this groundbreaking initiative. Additionally, our gratitude extends to UVT and uAvionix for their invaluable assistance throughout this journey, underscoring the collaborative spirit driving innovation in public safety,” said Chris Baker, Systems Administrator and Drone & Robotics Coordinator for Oswego City, NY.
“The achievement marks a pivotal moment for police departments, emergency services, and fire departments nationwide,” noted Jon Damush, uAvionix CEO. “The use of our Casia G product in Oswego’s DFR program exemplifies how advanced technology can enhance public safety operations. Future approvals for Police, EMS, and Fire departments adopting the same approach are expected, paving the way for widespread adoption of DFR programs across the United States.”
DFR programs are transforming emergency response for police departments by deploying drones with advanced surveillance and communication technologies. These drones provide immediate situational awareness of incidents, such as confirming or refuting the possession of a firearm or allowing guidance to be given to junior officers. This capability enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of police responses and strategic resource allocation.
uAvionix has been pioneering technologies for the safe integration of UAS into national airspace since 2015. In October 2023, they acquired Iris Automation, the original developer of the Casia G Detect and Avoid system. This acquisition strengthens uAvionix’s core offerings for BVLOS operations, including the Casia G system and FlightLine, which displays ADS-B surveillance data.
.png)
