Tag: Concept of operations

Aviation Hall of Fame - Jackie Dujmovic

Jackie Dujmovic, Inducted into the Women in Emerging Aviation Hall of Fame

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We’re thrilled to share that Jackie Dujmovic, CEO of Hover UAV, will be among the 11 distinguished women joining the Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Hall of Fame. This honour will be formally bestowed upon her during the 7th Annual Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Awards, slated to be held at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C., come October 25th. Those in attendance can anticipate mingling with these esteemed Hall of Fame entrants.

Women and Drones have continually celebrated women paving the way in the aviation sphere, their innovations and visions promising a future rich in technological and scientific leaps.

Recently, Women and Drones unveiled this year’s list of luminaries to be inducted into the Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Hall of Fame. These inductees, an embodiment of experience and expertise, hail from diverse backgrounds within the Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Advanced Air Mobility sectors. Sabrewing Aircraft Company champions this cause by sponsoring the awards. As per Ed De Reyes, Sabrewing’s CEO, they’re keen on celebrating the women driving growth, innovation, and creativity in aviation.

Previous Hall of Fame inductees and this year’s ceremony hosts include Miriam McNabb, the editor of DRONELIFE.com, and Marilyn Pearson, CAE’s Global Regulatory Affairs Lead for AAM/eVTOL/UAS. Pearson highlights the game-changing technologies transforming aviation, akin to the jet engine’s introduction. McNabb eagerly awaits the induction of these trailblazers in Washington DC, lauding their mark on the drone industry.

From the impressive nominations received from around the world, a panel of judges has chosen these eleven outstanding women as 2023 Hall of Fame inductees:

Loretta Alkalay – Aviation attorney and Adjunct Professor at Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology. Alkalay holds an FAA remote pilot certificate with a sUAS rating and also serves as a regulatory consultant, specializing in issues related to compliance with federal aviation regulations including drone rules.

Barbara Bollard – Professor Bollard of Australia is a leader in the field of drone remote sensing, renowned for her pioneering research in both Antarctica and extreme desert environments. Her groundbreaking achievements have significantly advanced the capabilities of drone technology, transforming data collection and analysis in these challenging terrains.

Jackie Dujmovic – Founder and CEO of Hover UAV in Australia. As a commercial UAS Pilot and accomplished Chief Remote Pilot, Dujmovic’s expertise is establishing robust communication and procedural frameworks with regulators across local, national, and international spheres. Her ultimate mission is the seamless integration of drone systems into everyday life, commitments to safety, compliance, and navigating intricate operational approvals.

Desiree Ekstein – Founder of On The Go Video and accomplished figure in the UAS industry. Ekstein is dedicated to promoting safety and education as a Lead FAASTeam Representative and AUVSI TOP Level 3 pilot. She is also involved in the “Girls Take Flight” initiative which encourages young women to explore careers in the science and technology fields.

Laurie Grindle – Deputy Center Director, NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center. Grindle assists in the management of the NASA field centre, focusing on strategy, business processes, and institutional management. She has also served in leadership roles overseeing Unmanned Air Vehicles and the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew vehicle abort test booster.

Sonet Kock – Director of Drone Policy & Regulatory Development. Sonet is the Founder and Managing Director of AviComply (Pty) Ltd, a leading South African consulting firm specializing in Aviation Compliance Solutions. She is known for her expertise and extensive experience in Aviation Regulatory Compliance and has dedicated her efforts to ensuring quality and safety assurance for both crewed and uncrewed flight operations.

Mercy Makau – President and Founder of the Young Aviator Club of Africa as well as Chairperson of Drone Club Kenya. Makau is considered a passionate change maker, deeply committed to empowering youth and promoting gender equity in Africa’s aviation and aerospace industry.

Jenn Player – Senior Director of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs at Skydio. Jenn collaborates with customers, regulators, and standards development organizations to advance autonomy and unlock safe and effective docked drone operations. Jenn’s early work to integrate drones into the National Airspace System led to the first long-range BVLOS civil flight in the continental United States.

Dr Debbie Saunders – Founder, CEO and Chief Remote Pilot of Wildlife Drones. The Australian company is transforming biodiversity conservation by developing innovative technological solutions, including the world’s most advanced drone-based radio-telemetry sensor that empowers endangered and invasive species managers globally to simultaneously track the movements of many animals from a drone in real time.

Annalisa Russell-Smith – Chief Strategy Officer, Flyby Technology. The company flew the COVID virus between laboratories and chemotherapy to isolated communities and Russell-Smith was the first civilian female in the United Kingdom to become a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) pilot.

Abigail Smith – Executive Director (A), of the FAA’s UAS Security Office, which serves as the focal point for all matters related to drone and air mobility (AAM) security in U.S. airspace. Within this role, Smith leads the FAA’s efforts to safely integrate detection and mitigation systems for drones and AAM operations into the National Airspace System.

About the Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Awards: Initiated in 2017, Women and Drones has been shining a spotlight on those reshaping the UAS/AAM industry. Every year, a global hunt singles out women and entities bringing innovation, enhancing the UAS/AAM industry’s reputation, fostering inclusivity in STEM and aviation, and propelling the industry closer to equal gender representation.

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Australian Aviation Support Business of the Year - Hover UAV

Hover UAV Clinches 2023 Aviation Support Business of the Year at the Australian Aviation Awards

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A Milestone Event in the Aviation Industry

The Australian Aviation Awards, the cornerstone event for the aviation sector in Australia, has just concluded its 2023 ceremony, and what a phenomenal experience it was! Held in August, the black-tie gala was nothing short of spectacular, featuring aviation luminaries, industry thought leaders and professionals who have devoted their careers to the advancement of aviation in Australia. Among the list of prestigious accolades, one award stood out for its testament to dedication, innovation, and service excellence: the Aviation Support Business of the Year. The winner? Hover UAV.

Celebrating Excellence in Support and Innovation

Hover UAV has proven itself to be more than just a company; it is a vanguard in the ever-evolving landscape of Australian aviation. Their work in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has not only set new standards in terms of efficiency and safety but also pushed the boundaries of technological innovation in the sector.

The Aviation Support Business of the Year award celebrates companies that have shown exemplary service, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to elevate the aviation sector. With this award, Hover UAV has achieved a milestone that symbolises industry-wide recognition of its efforts to create safer and more efficient airspace.

A Platform for Connection and Visibility

The Australian Aviation Awards aims to foster greater connectivity within the aviation industry, offering a platform for professionals and businesses to showcase their accomplishments. Open to all, irrespective of location or specialisation, the awards are quickly becoming the universal benchmark for excellence in Australian aviation.

Hover UAV’s victory in this esteemed category, therefore, is a monumental achievement. Not just an endorsement by a panel of industry experts, this win signifies a nod from the entire aviation community, recognising the critical role that support services like Hover UAV play in enriching the aviation ecosystem.

A Bright Future

This national awards program encourages businesses like Hover UAV to continually strive for excellence, propelling the Australian aviation industry into the global spotlight.

Hover UAV’s accolade is an indicator of the company’s promising trajectory and its potential to bring groundbreaking changes to how we perceive and interact with our skies. If the Australian Aviation Awards are a barometer for the future of aviation in the country, then the winds are surely blowing in the direction of unprecedented innovation and global prominence.

For more updates on the Australian Aviation Awards and insights into the aviation industry, https://australianaviation.com.au/australian-aviation-awards/winners/2023-winners-and-finalists.

BVLOS Regulatory Processes

BVLOS Regulatory Processes

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In this interview, it is discussed the intricacies and challenges in optimising regulatory processes for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. Jackie Dujmovic, CEO of Hover UAV calls attention to the necessity for clear and direct regulations, to simplify the approval process. They underscore the need to comprehend the concept of operations and devise suitable technical solutions accordingly. Jackie refers to progressive solutions such as parachutes, redundant systems, and software programming to reduce operational risks. She advocates for cooperation, seeking support, and educating regulators as vital tactics in managing the regulatory landscape. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the future impact of regulatory processes in maximising the potential of BVLOS operations and the importance of implementing standard scenarios to expedite the process.

Discussion:- Jackie Dujmovic, Hover UAV & Jason San Souci of FlytBase
Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Qualifications

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Requirements

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Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Requirements

CASA releases new changes for qualifications required for EVLOS operations and BVLOS Enclosed Operations

CASA has just announced the release of a new instrument for RPAS operators in Australia – the CASA EX27/23 – Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Exemption 2023. This instrument, which comes into effect today, will be valid until August 31, 2024. It replaces the previous instrument, EX46/21, and requires those currently operating EVLOS and BVLOS to update their CASA operations manual.

“Now both EVLOS Class I and Class II no longer require a Remote Pilot to hold a pass in IREX or BVLOS OCTA Exam”

The new CASA EX27/23 instrument brings some exciting and additional changes for operators. Firstly, it now allows for the operation of both EVLOS Class 1 and EVLOS Class 2 without requiring the Remote Pilot to hold a pass in the IREX or the CASA-approved OCTA exam or the need for a supervising remote pilot to hold those qualifications. Whereas the old instrument only allowed this for Class 1. However, it’s important to note that the ReOC holder will still need to be approved for EVLOS Class 1 or EVLOS Class 1 and 2 and have approved documents and procedures.

“BVLOS enclosed operations no longer require a Remote Pilot to hold a pass in IREX or BVLOS OCTA Exam or need a supervising Remote Pilot with those qualifications ”

This new instrument still permits BVLOS enclosed operations without requiring the Remote Pilot to hold a pass in the IREX or the CASA-approved OCTA exam however there is now no need for a supervising Remote Pilot. Again, the ReOC holder will still need to be approved for BVLOS enclosed operations and have approved documents and procedures. Enclosed operations refer to RPA operations that take place within a building or other structure or a naturally occurring or manufactured space underground.

Like the previous instrument, the CASA EX27/23 instrument still allows for BVLOS operations to be conducted with a supervising remote pilot. This means that a remote pilot who doesn’t hold a pass in the IREX or approved BVLOS OCTA exam can have a supervising remote pilot who does hold these licenses supervise their flight. The supervising pilot will need to be located at the place where the remote pilot is operating, readily accessible to the remote pilot, and immediately available to advise and direct them.

Overall, the release of the CASA EX27/23 instrument brings some exciting opportunities for RPAS operators in Australia. If you require any assistance adding these changes into your current operations please reach out to the team at Hover UAV today.

A full copy of the instrument can be found here and is copied below. Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Requirements

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Qualifications

Instrument number CASA EX27/23

I, CHRISTOPHER PAUL MONAHAN, Executive Manager, National Operations & Standards, a delegate of CASA, make this instrument under regulations 11.160 and 11.205 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998.

[Signed Chris Monahan]

Christopher P. Monahan
Executive Manager, National Operations & Standards

5 April 2023

CASA EX27/23 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Exemption 2023

1      Name

                 This instrument is CASA EX27/23 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Exemption 2023.

2      Duration

              This instrument:

(a)   commences on the day after it is registered; and

(b)   is repealed at the end of 31 August 2024.

3      Repeal of instrument number CASA EX46/21

                 CASA EX46/21 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Instrument 2021 is repealed.

4      Interpretation

Note   In this instrument, certain terms and expressions have the same meaning as they have in the Civil Aviation Act 1988 and the regulations. These include: operated within the visual line of sight, remote pilot licence and RPA.

     (1) In this instrument:

documented practices and procedures has the meaning given by subsection 1.04(2) of the Part 101 Manual of Standards.

enclosed operation means an RPA operation in which an RPA is operated within a building or other structure, or a naturally occurring or manufactured space underground, in circumstances where:

(a)   it is physically impossible for the RPA to escape and fly away from the building, structure or space if the RPA is no longer under the control of the remote pilot operating the RPA; and

(b)   if the RPA collides with any part of the building, structure or periphery of the space, no material from the RPA, or building, structure or periphery of the space, can move or escape and cause injury to a person outside the building, structure or space.

EVLOS operation has the meaning given by section 5.04 of the Part 101 Manual of Standards.

exempted flight means a flight of an RPA that is operated beyond visual line of sight of the person operating the RPA at any time during the flight.

remote pilot means:

(a)   the holder of a remote pilot license; or

(b)   a person who is taken to hold a remote pilot license under sub regulation 202.461(3) of CASR.

RPA operator means a person who is certified as an RPA operator under regulation 101.335 of CASR.

supervising remote pilot, for an RPA operation, means a remote pilot who:

(a)   meets the requirements of sub regulation 101.300(4) of CASR for operating an RPA beyond visual line of sight; and

(b)   either:

          (i)  is the RPA operator of the RPA being operated during the RPA operation; or

         (ii)  if the remote pilot is not the RPA operator of the RPA — has been appointed by the RPA operator to supervise the person operating the RPA during the RPA operation.

     (2) In this instrument, an RPA is operated beyond visual line of sight of the person operating the RPA if it is not operated within the visual line of sight of the person.

5      Exemptions

     (1) A remote pilot who, as an RPA operator or member of an RPA operator’s personnel, operates an RPA for an exempted flight is exempt from compliance with paragraph 101.300(4)(a) of CASR.

     (2) Subject to subsection (3), a remote pilot who, as a member of an RPA operator’s personnel, operates an RPA for an exempted flight is exempt from compliance with sub-regulation 101.073(1) of CASR.

     (3) The exemption granted under subsection (2) only applies if the RPA operator holds an approval, under regulation 101.029 of CASR, for the operator’s personnel to operate the RPA beyond visual line of sight.

     (4) The exemptions are subject to the conditions stated in section 6.

6      Conditions

     (1) The remote pilot must ensure the RPA operation complies with the documented practices and procedures for operating the RPA for an exempted flight.

     (2) Subject to subsection (4), the remote pilot must operate the RPA under the immediate supervision of the supervising remote pilot, for the RPA operation, who is:

(a)   at the place where the remote pilot is located; and

(b)   readily accessible to the remote pilot; and

(c)   immediately available to advise, and direct, the remote pilot.

Note   This subsection does not limit the supervising remote pilot observing multiple flights of RPAs, for the RPA operator, at the same time.

     (3)     Subject to subsection (4), the remote pilot must comply with the directions, in relation to the RPA operation, of the supervising remote pilot for the RPA operation.     (4) Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply if the RPA operation is an enclosed operation or EVLOS operation.

BVLOS Operations

BVLOS Operations in the Next Decade

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This podcast held during the 2023 NestGen Flytbase event “BVLOS Operations in the Next Decade: What to Expect in 2033” features a thought leadership discussion with top CXOs in the drone industry. Hover UAVs Jackie Dujmovic was fortunate to be on this esteemed panel giving her leadership thoughts. The topic of discussion was the outlook on drone autonomy in the future. The panel discussed the challenges and opportunities that drone autonomy will bring and the potential impact on various industries. They also discussed the importance of safety and regulation in enabling the widespread use of autonomous drones, as well as the need for continued innovation in drone technology. Overall, the panelists predict a significant increase in the use of autonomous drones in the next decade, particularly in industries such as agriculture, transportation, and logistics.

For more information on BVLOS operations, approvals, or training please do not hesitate to gain contact Hover UAV for more information.

BVLOS Operations in the Next Decade. What to expect in 2033
BVLOS Training

BVLOS Training

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BVLOS training – The drone industry views operating Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) as the next frontier but obtaining the necessary BVLOS rating has been a challenge due to the complexity of the current licensing requirements. However, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia has introduced an alternative way of obtaining the BVLOS rating through a CASA-approved OCTA BVLOS examination, which has eliminated the barriers and complexity of the previous Instrument Rating Examination (IREX) requirement.

To help operators and organisations prepare for this new requirement, Hover UAV, a well-known drone consultancy, has launched a nationwide training program for the BVLOS Rating exam. The course covers a wide range of topics, including general BVLOS knowledge, aeronautical knowledge, meteorology, airspace classification, human factors, navigation systems, communications, and examination practice, which has been tailored to provide operators with the knowledge and skills needed to pass CASA’s OCTA BVLOS examination and as such operate safely and efficiently during BVLOS operations.

Hover UAV’s new training program is an excellent opportunity for operators and organisations looking to transition to BVLOS operations. With Hover UAV’s expertise in conducting BVLOS operations in applications such as drone delivery, operating from a remote operations center (ROC), and conducting long-range surveillance, the company is well-positioned to offer high-quality training and ensure a smooth and safe transition to BVLOS operations. The program is open to all operators across Australia, and Hover UAV is committed to providing nationwide training.

BVLOS Training
Hover UAV – BVLOS Operations

If you’re interested in Hover UAV’s BVLOS Rating exam training program, you can visit their website to learn more and sign up for the next available training session. With the drone industry evolving rapidly, this training program is an excellent way to stay ahead of the curve and become a successful and safe BVLOS operator.

For more information please do not hesitate to reach out to Hover UAV for more information.

BVLOS New Zealand

New Zealand BVLOS Safety Case Week

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Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand Part 102 BVLOS approvals

Recently, the NZ Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment supported Hover UAV in a week-long tour focused on beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) safety cases. During the tour, the Hover UAV team visited Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, conducting both full-day and 2-hour introductory sessions to educate attendees on conducting BVLOS operations. The sessions aimed to provide participants with an understanding of the requirements and complexities involved in BVLOS operations.

What was discussed?

The interactive sessions conducted by Hover UAV, with support from the NZ Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment, included a range of topics related to beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. These sessions were designed to provide attendees with a deeper understanding of the requirements and complexities involved in conducting BVLOS operations, including future requirements for such operations.

One important aspect of these sessions was BVLOS case studies. These case studies provided attendees with real-world examples of BVLOS operations, highlighting the benefits and challenges of conducting such operations. By examining these case studies, attendees were able to gain a better understanding of the various factors that must be considered when conducting BVLOS operations, such as airspace restrictions, regulatory requirements, and safety considerations.

Another key component of these sessions was an expert drone panel. The panel consisted of experts in the drone delivery and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors, who were able to share their insights and experiences with attendees. This provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to learn from industry leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the latest developments in drone technology and operations.

Overall, these interactive sessions provided a comprehensive overview of the requirements and challenges of BVLOS operations, as well as insights into the latest developments in the drone industry. By attending these sessions, attendees were able to gain a deeper understanding of BVLOS operations and how they can be conducted safely and efficiently.

Drone Panel Hover UAV Swoop Aero Wisk Aero
Phillip Grieve/Jackie Dujmovic (Hover UAV) / Marion Hiriart (Swoop Aero) / Catherine MacGowan (Wisk Aero)

Where can I find out more information about the Part 102 Process – BVLOS in New Zealand?

If you’re looking for more information about the Part 102 process, which is the regulatory framework for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in New Zealand, there are several resources available to you. Here are a few places you can start:

  1. Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA): The CAA is the primary regulatory authority for aviation in New Zealand and oversees the Part 102 process. Their website provides detailed information on the Part 102 process, including guidance material, application forms, and a list of certified UAV operators.
  2. Airways New Zealand: Airways New Zealand is the air navigation services provider in New Zealand and is responsible for managing airspace operations. They work closely with the CAA to ensure safe and efficient operations of unmanned aircraft. Their website provides information on the Part 102 process and how it relates to airspace management.
  3. New Zealand UAV Industry Association (UAVNZ): The UAVNZ is a non-profit industry association that represents the interests of the New Zealand UAV industry. Their website provides information on the Part 102 process, as well as industry news, events, and resources
  4. Hover UAV provides training on the Part 102 process, which is the regulatory framework for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in New Zealand. This training is designed to help individuals and organizations understand the requirements and complexities of the Part 102 process, and ensure that they are able to operate UAVs in compliance with the regulations.

Overall, there are many resources available for learning more about the Part 102 process in New Zealand. By leveraging these resources, you can ensure that you are compliant with the regulations and operating safely and efficiently in the New Zealand airspace.

BVLOS New Zealand

We are here to help

Hover UAV is a consultancy firm that specialises in providing services related to remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) or drones. They have extensive experience in conducting safety cases for Specific Operations Risk Assessments (SORA) and developing documented policies and procedures for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and complex drone operations for clients both domestically and internationally.

Recently, Hover UAV successfully helped Pypervision in obtaining their Part 102 certification for the conduct of BVLOS operations for fog dispersal operations.

If you are unsure about what you need for your BVLOS or complex operations, Hover UAV has Part 102 packages that can cater to your requirements. They also offer Discovery Workshops that can assist in developing your Concept of Operations (Con Ops) to determine your organisational and equipment requirements based on your intended operation.

If you want to learn more about their services, you can contact their team today at 0800 992 753 for a free initial consultation.

Demystifying BVLOS

Demystifying BVLOS

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Demystifying BVLOS. Episode 01: Understanding the Australia-Pacific Regulatory Landscape with Jackie Dujmovic from Hover UAV

In this webinar series brought to you by our partners at FlyBase discussion circles around demystifying BVLOS drone operations, and the most frequent inquiries that drone users and businesses make about the regulatory process. When should a waiver or approval application be submitted? What steps must one take to obtain them? Can pilots and proofs of concept be carried out without a waiver or approval? How are the laws affected by geography? What prerequisites must be met before beginning the BVLOS operations and waiver process?

​We have heard you. And therefore, we bring you a brand-new webinar series. Through sessions with regulatory experts, we hope to address your questions and concerns regarding BVLOS drone ops and waivers particular to your operating region!

​The main focus of this session was on BVLOS drone operations, the various use cases prevalent in Australia and New Zealand, and the CASA and CAA regulatory frameworks that affect the region.

If you are looking for any assistance on BVLOS operations be it defining your concept of operations or guidance on hardware or software and where it may fall in regards to its SAIL level (Specific Integrity and Assurance Level), both in Australia or New Zealand please do not hesitate to reach out to the experienced Hover UAV team for assistance. Hover UAV has a wealth of knowledge in gaining waivers or approvals from both CASA (Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority) and the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand) making Hover UAV your go-to resource when looking to leverage the most from your autonomous drone program.

Jackie Dujmovic Hover UAV – FlytBase

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