Aeronautics Proposal

The Capabilities, Integration into the National Airspace System, Qualifications, Regulations and Institutionalization of Drones

by

Jeremy Mitchem

A Research Project Proposal

Submitted to the Worldwide Campus

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

of Course ASCI 490, The Aeronautical Science Capstone Course

for the Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics Degree

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

January 2016

Abstract

The development of drone technology has come a long way. Drones were mainly known for their use in the military, but now are starting to venture into the commercial market. Drones are used to film action scenes, monitor crops, provide inspection and surveillance, and are sold to hobbyist for personal use. The size of a drone can range from the palm of one’s hand to a full-size aircraft or helicopter. The focus of the research will be on future capabilities of drones, the process of institutionalizing usage, and the new FAA regulations regarding drone operations. Also, the report will discuss be the integration of the drones in the National Airspace System (NAS) and the qualifications required to fly a drone. The future is endless for autonomous vehicles. Drones have already changed the way wars are fought and aided in the film industry. This is just the beginning of the many capabilities the unmanned industry will change our way of life.

The Capabilities, Integration into the National Airspace System, Qualifications, Regulations and Institutionalization of Drones

Statement of the Project

The purpose of this project is to assess the future of unmanned aerial systems by evaluating the future capabilities, regulations to ensure control, qualifications of individuals flying, and how to integrate into airspace with other aerial systems. This is an individual project, which will cover all of the program outcomes outlined in Aeronautics Degree requirements.

Introduction

The concept of a drone is to be able to travel in the air...