The supervision of critical infrastructures is extremely essential for the companies Chevron Pipe Line Company (CPL) and American Aerospace Technologies (AATI), which obtained a special exemption from the FAA, in order to achieve the operation of unmanned aircraft .
Drone operations
The waivers allow AATI to deploy its advanced unmanned aircraft system, AiRanger, designed specifically for beyond-visual-range aerial observation. This allows more work areas to be covered and increased security in the areas.
In October 2023, during testing at Buttonwillow, California, the AiRanger’s Sense and Avoid ( DAA ) system functionalities demonstrated effectiveness, leading the FAA to grant the necessary exemptions for its beyond-visual-range operation. straight.
According to Stephanie Beveridge, president of CPL, this collaboration with the FAA since 2019 has been focused on developing an air patrol methodology that optimizes infrastructure inspection , to guarantee the safety of pipeline operations. The implementation of the AiRanger marks an important step toward achieving these goals in the San Joaquin Valley.
The capabilities of the AiRanger aircraft
The AiRanger aircraft, an unmanned fixed-wing aircraft, stands out for its ability to perform long-range and long-duration flights , facilitating coverage of a large area. This capability is reinforced by its impressive wingspan and autonomy, which allow it to operate at significant altitudes and distances, overcoming the usual limitations for drones of its type.
David Yoel, executive director of AATI, highlights that the approval of the AiRanger to operate in extensive airspace. This operation marks the beginning of a new era for commercial unmanned aviation in the United States. Its ability to transmit data in real time and its focus on security are essential to expand its operations nationwide.
The AiRanger unmanned aircraft system. Source: American Aerospace Technologies.
AiRanger technology is designed to meet and exceed the demands of the Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration ( PHMSA ) for pipeline inspections and monitoring. According to Roy Martínez, project manager of the UAS initiative at CPL, cooperation with the FAA and other entities has been key to advancing the use of innovative technologies.
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Source and photo: Chevron/AATI
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