Rapid Imaging Software, Inc.has introduced SmarTopo Harvest. This new technology is integrated into the SmarTopo Obstacle Management System. SmarTopo delivers obstacle survey and detection technology plus powerful data management tools for a complete obstacle management system. SmarTopo is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to a level 1B. Continue reading
Author Archives: The Editor
Aerial Refuelling Test of X-47B Imminent
VisionMap Adds 3D Capabilities to Aerial Cameras
VisionMap – a provider of digital aerial automatic mapping systems – will introduce new 3D capabilities to its popular aerial cameras, MIST and A3 Edge, at LAAD 2015. The new capability, called 3D Edge, is performed by an image processing system located on the ground, along with 3D modeling software. The images produced by the cameras automatically reach the ground unit, and through a sophisticated algorithm, create three-dimensional models. Continue reading
Bechtel Uses UAS Technology in Construction
Bechtel has been granted permission for commercial use of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) technology by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The permission allows Bechtel to operate UAS technology on projects in the United States to enhance construction processes within the virtual project delivery approach. Continue reading
FAA Summary Grants Speed UAS Exemptions
The “summary grant” process the Federal Aviation Administration used last week to issue 30 Section 333 unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) is another example of how the agency is using a flexible regulatory approach to accommodate this rapidly evolving technology. Continue reading
FAA Gives Amazon Summary Grant for Test Flights
Amazon has just made it known that the Federal Aviation Administration has granted them provisional use of drones. It is a “summary grant” that allows for the e-commerce company to operate 30 Section 333 unmanned aircraft systems. Continue reading
Amazon’s Drone Delivery Dreams Not Feasible – DJI
DJI, the largest manufacturer of consumer multirotor drones in the world and a keen proponent of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) being used in industry, has said it does not believe Amazon’s drone delivery dreams are feasible in the near future.
FAA Grants 30 New Commercial UAS Exemptions
The Federal Aviation Administration has recently approved 30 more commercial unmanned aircraft systems exemptions, bringing the total number of approved operations to 99. Continue reading



