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AUVSI Testimony: Regulatory Framework Education Needed

Posted on by darion

AUVSI Testimony: Michael Robbins Speaks Before House Subcommittee on Aviation

Michael Robbins, president and CEO of the Association of Uncrewed Systems and Vehicles International (AUVSI), recently testified before the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s Aviation Subcommittee. Representing the world’s largest trade association for unmanned systems, robotics and autonomy, Robbins emphasized the critical role of regulatory frameworks and education in advancing the drone and advanced air mobility (AAM) industry.

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Robbins expressed gratitude to the Subcommittee and the entire Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for their bipartisan leadership, particularly in the recent passage of the FAA Reauthorization Act. He emphasized that this legislation sets a benchmark for effective action by Congress in supporting aviation safety and innovation.

“We are at a pivotal moment in aviation history, and drones and AAM aircraft are unlocking significant benefits in both safety and technological leadership,” Robbins said. He emphasized the economic and workforce opportunities these technologies offer, noting that drones are becoming essential for a variety of critical operations, including public safety, package delivery, precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection. Additionally, AAM is poised to revolutionize propulsion systems, battery technology and flight controls, creating new segments in aviation and increasing workforce productivity and safety.

Need for a Regulatory Framework for Drones and AAM

Robbins emphasized the importance of developing a regulatory framework to fully leverage the potential of these industries. He pointed to the upcoming Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) regulations for drones and the Powered-Lift Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft as key steps. “Without this regulatory framework, innovation will be stifled, operations will remain limited, and the drone and AAM industries will not be able to thrive in the United States in the foreseeable future,” Robbins warned.

The testimony also highlighted the need to modernize and expand the workforce in industry and government. Robbins called for real dollar increases in FAA funding to hire new subject matter experts and emphasized the importance of fully funding workforce development programs and grants included in the FAA Reauthorization Act. He also advocated for integrating drone and AAM training into curricula from elementary school through higher education.

“AUVSI is proud to partner with multiple Collegiate Training Initiative schools on our advanced drone training program, Trusted Operator, to deliver an enhanced level of drone knowledge, flight proficiency, and safety and risk management practices that are valued by employers and clients of commercial drone operators,” Robbins noted.

In closing, Robbins thanked the Subcommittee leadership, particularly Chairman Garret Graves, for their contributions to aviation safety and advanced aviation. “Your leadership has significantly advanced aviation safety and ensured that advanced aviation receives the attention it needs from Congress and the regulatory body,” Robbins concluded, expressing confidence in the industry’s continued progress.

Robbins’ testimony highlights the significant opportunities and challenges facing the drone and AAM industries. As these technologies evolve, it will be essential to establish a robust regulatory framework and workforce development programs.

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