CBP Tests Predator at Civilian Airport

Drone-in-San-Angelo-640x480U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) division announced late last week it is testing a programme to operate Predator drones from a civilian airport in San Angelo, Texas.

The three- to four-week deployment, which began on January 28th, is a first-ever UAS deployment at a civilian airport. AMO aircrews normally operate the UAS above 18,000 feet, using Instrument Flight Rules, and while in constant communications with Air Traffic Control. AMO will operate the UAS in accordance with an approved Certificate of Authorization.

AMO conducts its law enforcement and homeland security missions at and beyond the nation’s borders. During this proof-of concept, AMO will operate the UAS from San Angelo and conduct its border security mission along the Texas border. AMO selected San Angelo because of its favourable weather conditions, central location and the existence of a current AMO operating location.

Source: Press Release

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