This year’s Energy Drone & Robotics Summit was filled with so many great sessions. Today, we’re going to recap the session, “How a Utility Implemented a Successful Drone Program” presented by Brent Klavon, Chief Strategy Officer at ANRA Technologies.

In the session, Klavon covered how the New York Power Authority (NYPA), the largest state-owned utility company in the United States, uses drones and autonomous systems to enhance operations and ensure regulatory compliance.

NYPA's Vision for the Future

NYPA's use of drones and robotics is bolstered by Mission Manager X, a software application deployed with the help of ANRA to help NYPA manage its extensive fleet of drones and autonomous systems. Mission Manager X provides NYPA with a robust platform to organize, maintain, and train pilots for their drone operations. The integration with their CRS system, Maximo, allows for seamless data management, fleet management, and resource allocation. This comprehensive approach ensures that NYPA's drone program is not only efficient but also scalable and adaptable to future regulatory changes.

Preparing for Part 108: A Strategic Approach

Speaking of regulatory changes, the forthcoming Part 108 regulations from the FAA have been a focal point for NYPA. By proactively incorporating airspace management technologies and concepts into their operations, NYPA is positioning itself to remain compliant and ahead of the curve.

Understanding UTM

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Traffic Management (UTM) is a critical component of NYPA’s strategy. UTM involves the collaboration of various stakeholders—including NASA, the FAA, and numerous international aviation authorities—to ensure that drones can operate safely and efficiently alongside manned aircraft.

ANRA has worked with NYPA to advance its UTM capabilities. Its involvement in numerous research and development activities, including over 30,000 simulations and extensive testing, underscores its commitment to creating a safe and integrated airspace system.

Collaboration and Scalability

NYPA's approach extends beyond its own operations. They recognize the importance of interoperability and collaboration with other entities. For instance, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) of New York, which manages subways, trains, and rail services in the metropolitan area, also uses the Mission Manager X platform. This interconnectedness ensures that different state entities can share information and deconflict operations, paving the way for a cohesive and scalable drone management system.

Embracing Standards and Regulatory Compliance

One of the critical aspects of preparing for Part 108 is adhering to established standards. The publication of the UTM standard in 2022 provides a framework for interoperability between UTM providers. ANRA has been at the forefront of this development, ensuring that its systems align with these standards and are ready for future regulatory requirements.

Key Takeaways for the Industry

As we move toward an era where drones and autonomous systems become integral to various industries, there are several key takeaways for enterprises looking to prepare for Part 108:

1. Airspace Integration: Ensure that your tools and software systems are capable of integrating with the national airspace system. This includes having a clear plan for interoperability and communication with other providers.

2. Safety Case Development: Develop comprehensive safety cases that demonstrate awareness of airspace and the ability to manage both cooperative and uncooperative traffic. This will be crucial for obtaining FAA approvals for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations.

3. Proactive Planning: Start preparing now for the regulatory changes that Part 108 will bring. By implementing airspace management technologies and building robust safety cases, you can ensure a smooth transition and avoid the need for costly reconfigurations.

Conclusion

NYPA's innovative approach to integrating drones and autonomous systems into their operations serves as a model for other utilities and enterprises. By leveraging advanced software solutions, adhering to standards, and preparing for future regulations, NYPA is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also setting the stage for a safer and more integrated airspace system. As we look to the future, the lessons learned from NYPA's journey will be invaluable for all stakeholders in the drone and robotics industry.

Access this and other recordings from the 2024 Energy Drone & Robotics Summit. 

And make sure to mark your calendar for June 16-18, 2025, to join us at next year’s Energy Drone & Robotics Summit in Houston, Texas.