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11 September 2024
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<a href="https://draganfly.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Draganfly Inc.</a>, an award-winning, industry-leading drone solutions and systems developer is proud to announce the launch of its newest product, the <a href="https://draganfly.com/draganfly-apex/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">APEX Drone</a>, designed specifically to meet the demanding needs of military and law enforcement surveillance operations.
The APEX UAV is a direct response to the increasing global demand for a compact, transportable version of the highly respected Commander 3XL. Incorporating feedback from military and law enforcement agencies, the APEX drone is a versatile and powerful solution that offers unmatched portability and modularity without sacrificing performance. Designed and Manufactured in North America, the APEX drone has been built to the high standards of government and military applications, making it an ideal choice for defence and law enforcement missions.
Engineered with up to 45 minutes of flight time and a payload capacity of 5 pounds, the APEX is equipped to handle a variety of mission-critical applications. Its quick-release, exchangeable payload system allows operators to adapt swiftly to changing operational needs. Optional upgrades to onboard computing and communications make the APEX platform a fit for a variety of current and future UAV operations. Available Nvidia onboard computing delivers cutting-edge AI performance to allow users to execute complex AI algorithms and real-time data processing directly on the drone. Additionally, a variety of communication link options are available that include interference-resistant COFDM and multi-channel capabilities, ensuring continuous control and reliable communication in RF-challenged environments.
The APEX drone will debut globally at the Land Forces Conference in Melbourne, Australia, from September 11-13, 2024, where it will be introduced to the Asia-Pacific defence industry. This premier event attracts military leaders, law enforcement, and industry experts, offering a prime platform for showcasing the APEX's capabilities and fostering connections among global defence leaders.
&ldquo;The APEX represents a significant advancement in our drone technology, delivering a compact yet powerful solution that directly addresses the needs of our military and law enforcement partners,&rdquo; said Cameron Chell, CEO of Draganfly. &ldquo;We are excited to showcase the APEX at the Land Forces Conference and are confident that it will set new standards for performance and reliability in the field.&rdquo;
<h5>Learn More</h5>
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<h5>About Draganfly</h5>
Draganfly Inc. is a leading developer of cutting-edge drone solutions, software, and AI systems that revolutionize how organizations operate and serve their stakeholders. With over 25 years of industry experience, Draganfly is recognized as a technology leader, providing innovative solutions for public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying markets. Draganfly&rsquo;s mission is to deliver efficient, first-class services that save time, money, and lives.
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Draganfly Unveils New APEX Drone

Trending News

10 September 2024
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/PJwhfBph0II2m679h7zgsmJIjejGxe06Q5qShc5U.jpg" alt="" width="130" height="132" />
<a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/our-team/brazzel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">By Timothy Brazzel&nbsp;</a>
On September 8, 2024, I felt an urgency in my spirit to document the catastrophic Line Fire that was rapidly spreading through San Bernardino County, affecting family and friends close to my heart. The fire, which started near Highland just days prior, had grown at an alarming rate due to scorching temperatures and dry conditions. As a certified drone pilot, I knew I had an opportunity to contribute to public awareness in a safe and meaningful way.
The Line Fire, as of today, has scorched over 20,000 acres, forcing more than 6,000 residents to evacuate. With mandatory evacuation orders issued for communities like Running Springs and Arrowbear Lake, the situation continues to escalate. Only three percent of the fire is contained, despite the efforts of over 1,700 firefighters battling the flames day and night.
With these heartbreaking realities in mind, I carefully planned my flight. After checking my local airspace and confirming that the area I intended to fly in was Class G airspace (without restrictions or advisories at the time), I powered on my Mavic 3 drone and began capturing the overwhelming effects of the fire. From a safe distance, I documented the thick clouds of smoke, the desolate skies, and the poor air quality that continues to plague the region.
What inspired me to share this experience?
It was the response from my Instagram Reel. The footage resonated with many, and I realized how crucial it was to showcase this disaster from a different perspective. People were grateful to see what was happening from the sky&mdash;an angle not everyone has access to. As drone pilots, we have a unique tool in our hands to bring constructive, positive, and informative visuals to our communities. By safely documenting and sharing such events, we can contribute to the public&rsquo;s understanding of these crises.
However, there are critical responsibilities that come with flying in such situations. I cannot stress enough the importance of being intentional, safe, and respectful of airspace regulations. Interference with manned aircraft&mdash;particularly those involved in firefighting efforts&mdash;can be dangerous and even life-threatening. That's why I always emphasize to fellow drone pilots: use your drone wisely, but never recklessly.
As the Line Fire continues to rage on, I hope my small contribution serves as a reminder of the power of perspective and the responsibility we have as drone operators. Stay informed, stay safe, and, if you can, use your skills to make a difference.
For those following the fire closely, official updates can be found through CAL FIRE and InciWeb, as this situation continues to evolve with the arrival of more triple-digit heat this week: <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2024/9/5/line-fire" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2024/9/5/line-fire </a>and <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/cabdf-line-fire" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/cabdf-line-fire</a>
By sharing these visuals and my experience, I hope to inspire others to use technology responsibly in times of need. We have a real opportunity to be visual advocates. Let&rsquo;s make sure we do it safely.
<h5>Watch</h5>
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_r2oIHxyBZ/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_r2oIHxyBZ/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==</a>
<h5><a href="https://thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/brazzel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click to Read More Articles From Timothy Brazzel</a></h5>

Capturing the Unyielding Line Fire Through the Lens of a Drone

06 September 2024
Podcast #0004 finds <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/our-team/chris-fravel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chris Fravel</a> interviewing Greg Reverdiau of the <a href="https://pilotinstitute.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pilot Institute</a> about the latest happenings at his educational company for manned and unmanned pilots. Fravel and Reverdiau also get into the latest DJI ban news and what it could mean for the drone industry,&nbsp;
Don't forget to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thedroningcompany" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SUBSCRIBE</a>!
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The Droning Company Podcast 4: Greg Reverdiau of the Pilot Institute

06 September 2024
The FAA is investigating a rogue drone flight at Comerica Park, Detroit, on September 4 that caused security to rush the members of Green Day offstage during the band's performance of "Longview." The concert was paused for ten minutes, and the pilot was identified and detained by the Detroit Police Department.
It was a dramatic scene as Green Day crew members ran onstage at approximately 8:50 pm (ET). Video of the moment shows Green Day bassist Mike Dirnt being physically hustled into the wings. A few seconds later, vocalist/guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong looks toward the backstage area and runs offstage as additional crew herds the rest of the band to safety.
Confused and concerned concert goers&mdash;estimated at 30,000 strong&mdash;were alerted to a message on the stage video screens stating, "Show Pause. Please Stand By for Details."
While it's not unusual for drones to appear overhead at concert events, they are typically approved and hired by the artists, band management, or venue administration to document performances. At press time, it was not revealed who identified the green-lighted drone as an unauthorized UAV and ordered Green Day be removed from the stage.&nbsp;
However, Green Day's X account did post: "Stadium security had us clear the stage while they dealt with a potential safety issue. DPD quickly resolved the situation, and we were able to continue. Thanks for understanding."
Green Day is currently on its Saviors Tour, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Dookie, as well as the 20th anniversary of American Idiot.
The FAA bans unauthorized drones from flying within a radius of three miles around stadiums, starting one hour before an event begins until one hour after the scheduled end time. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 increased the fine for pilots conducting "unsafe or unauthorized operations" to $75,000 per violation.
<h5>Fan Video of Drone Moment</h5>
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<h5>Detroit Free Press Report</h5>
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Unauthorized Drone Buzzes Detroit Green Day Concert

03 September 2024
If you're attending the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas, September 3-5&mdash;and you should be there, after all&mdash;do a "flyby" to Booth #304 and meet the principals of The Droning Company.&nbsp;
Scheduled to be at the booth a various times throughout the day are CEO Stuart Smith, <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/jon-mcbride" target="_blank" rel="noopener">"The Drone Jesus" Jon McBride</a>, drone vloggers supreme <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/chris-fravel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chris Fravel</a> and <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/sam-karp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sam Karp</a>, marketing director <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/our-team/ron-morgan" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ron Morgan</a>, and drone-gig guru <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/news/categories/brazzel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Timothy Brazzel.</a>
<h5>SUPER-BONUS MEET-UP OPPORTUNITY WITH PETER BURNS III: THE DRONE FINANCIER!</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/PFv9QSch4CuPdougTYen2S8l3OCkBgbJif92Z4Kc.png" alt="" width="310" height="306" />
If you're seeking financing for your drone business, The Droning Company is showcasing booth time with <a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/-i-want-to-be-the-drone-financier-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peter Burns III</a> of Burns Funding.
<a href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/-i-want-to-be-the-drone-financier-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">READ ALL ABOUT BURNS FUNDING HERE!</a>
Catch the team as you can, because they will be conducting daily interviews with drone exhibitors and reporting the news here on The Droning Company website.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/fakrNC9spKnTkKfyXngfI63L7jAz8K81Oy2ffslx.jpg" alt="" width="686" height="553" />
Be sure to drop by Booth #304!
&nbsp;

Hang Out With The Droning Company During Commercial UAV Expo

30 August 2024
By <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/our-team/michael-molenda" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Molenda </a>
When <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://peterjburns3.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peter J. Burns III</a> of <a href="https://burnsfunding.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Burns Funding</a> proclaims he wants to establish himself as the financier for the drone community, it may seem like a bit of lofty, somewhat overconfident dream building.
However, if your initial thoughts are leaning in that direction, here&rsquo;s a tip for you: Betting against the &ldquo;dream&rdquo; of a massively successful, serial entrepreneur with a track record that almost defies logic would be true folly.
Burns&mdash;a self-made millionaire from a prominent New England family&mdash;has launched more than 200 startups (including one developing technology that prevents shark attacks), established an institute for entrepreneurship (as well as one of the first college programs devoted to teaching future entrepreneurs), started Club Entrepreneur, founded Millennial Queenmaker to guide female entrepreneurs, and is feverishly committed to helping startups acquire the funding they need to achieve success.&nbsp;
And it all started with golf balls.
&ldquo;When I was six years old, I would sometimes follow my dad when he went golfing,&rdquo; says Burns. &ldquo;I saw golfers hitting balls into the water hazards, and they&rsquo;d just drop a new ball into play and leave the other one in the water. I thought, &lsquo;Those golf balls cost around $1.25 each&mdash;there&rsquo;s an opportunity here.&rsquo; So, when my father finished his round and went to the bar with his friends, I rushed home&mdash;we lived close to the course&mdash;to get my waders, some Dixie cups, and a little table. I waded into the water, retrieved the golf balls, and then I sold the golfers their own balls back to them for 50 cents. I made $50 within a couple of hours before they threw me off the golf course [laughs]. That little business sparked everything.&rdquo;
The next &ldquo;official&rdquo; step in Burns&rsquo; career as an entrepreneur occurred when he attended the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia. Required to submit a business plan for the course, he recognized the popularity of mopeds in Europe, and devised a strategy to import the scooters to America and rent them to tourists at upscale resorts.
Until then, businesses had, for the most part, steered clear of moped sales and rentals because they had to be licensed and registered the same as a Harley Davidson, even though mopeds only had a top speed of around 25 mph.
However, when the vehicle law changed in the late 1970s, Burns pounced.
With mopeds now legally designated as motorized bikes that did not require the rider to possess a motorcycle license in most states, Burns knew the time was right for his plan. After leaving school, he launched his first moped business on the island of Nantucket, and, within two years, expanded it to more than 100 shops across the nation&rsquo;s resorts and tourist areas.
&ldquo;I made a small fortune, and never looked back,&rdquo; says Burns.
The following interview with Burns can be used as a micro seminar on how to win. Anyone who is seeking a career as a drone professional, or is developing new drone tech, evolving drone design, and/or manufacturing ancillary UAV products should absorb Burns&rsquo; entrepreneurial counsel and tactical strategies.
&nbsp;
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://go.burnsfunding.com/drone" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Connect with Burns Funding</a></h3>
&nbsp;
How did you get into financing?
I had to. Nobody would give me any money! Listen, even though my family is very wealthy, it&rsquo;s not like I could go to them with a proposal, and they&rsquo;d say, &ldquo;Oh, Peter. Good idea. Here&rsquo;s a billion dollars.&rdquo; That&rsquo;s not how it worked in my family, and it wasn&rsquo;t all that different in the banking world. As a result, I had to get really good at finding alternative sources of funding, so I could fund my own businesses. I became very successful at that, and soon, all the entrepreneurs in my world would ask me, &ldquo;How did you get that business funded? We can&rsquo;t do anything. Nobody will give us the money.&rdquo; So, I started brokering deals for the entrepreneurs who came to me for help.
What initially attracted you to the drone market as a business segment particularly favorable for investment?
I have an uncanny ability to recognize opportunities and capitalize on them, and I consider the drone industry a blue-ocean opportunity. There is massive potential for success. I mean, the market is certainly rising up now, but I believe there is still tremendous growth ahead. My focus is to look for markets that are fragmented&mdash;that do not yet have a dominant player&mdash;and figure out a way to get into them. In simplified terms, I think that&rsquo;s the present situation in the drone industry. Perhaps not in drones themselves, as DJI is obviously dominant, but in businesses and services related to drones and drone pilots. I'm not saying I'm going to fund everybody, but I'll fund as many companies as I can. Currently, no one is the leading investor for the drone industry. I want to position myself as the drone financier.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/5VI0bHovJH6KqKz8oO0IybCV6DVmbfIeARHF2npj.png" alt="" width="801" height="599" />
Burns established the Fun Rentals chain in 1996 to hire out exotic cars, mopeds, water vehicles, bicycles, and Harleys.&nbsp;
Can you share some details of your Burns Funding Method?
Basically, we make it very easy for ordinary people to get the capital they need. First, we look at just two things&mdash;your credit score and your income&mdash;and we can let you know if you qualify for funding within 18 seconds. If there are any problems with your credit rating, we can help you with that in a matter of weeks. Another huge benefit is that you&rsquo;re not acquiring a loan from a bank that can take years to pay back as it accrues interest, and eventually drowns you in debt. Instead, you are borrowing against our $1.5 billion line of credit. We are the guarantor of the loan. Essentially, your funding venture is a partnership with Burns Funding, and the cost of repaying your loan is zero. I know that sounds like a fantasy, but I am confident in my ability to grow successful businesses, and the money generated by my investment in you is used to pay off the loan. We&rsquo;re always happy to talk about specific details and answer any questions&mdash;especially as our method is very unusual, and I specialize in the unsecured world of alternative financing. Unlike most bankers, I don't sit there and go, &ldquo;Nope. Rejected&rdquo; every time an idea is brought in.
Typically, entrepreneurs and startups must look to banks and investors for working capital. You&rsquo;re obviously not a fan of that approach.
I don't use banks. I would no more go to a bank for funding than I'd jump off my balcony. Bankers don't do us any favors. I actually don&rsquo;t know why they earn a living to tell you the truth. They&rsquo;re useless. I discovered pretty quickly I had to figure it out for myself. And I did. I have two basic premises. One is that startups always need money, and they can't get it from the bank. After they've exhausted friends and family, they're basically screwed. Two is that you&rsquo;re in business to expand or make acquisitions, and you&rsquo;ll need money again. I have invested about a billion dollars in people over the years, so we&rsquo;re in a pretty good position to help with all of that.
What would you say to someone who is fearful of jumping into unconventional funding. Perhaps their guts love what Burns Funding represents, but their brains are thinking, &ldquo;Bank. Security. Bank.&rdquo;
I&rsquo;d offer that you have to deal with somebody who is a blood and guts entrepreneur like me. I&rsquo;ll get things done, because I had to do it for myself, and I never quit. My motto has always been, &ldquo;Ready. Fire. Aim." I mean, if you&rsquo;re not willing to step up and try something, you&rsquo;re never going to learn. There&rsquo;s a phrase I can&rsquo;t remember at the moment that basically says people who think too much never actually do anything. That would not be me.
Without the standard checks and balances of conventional lending in place, these funding decisions are all on you. Don&rsquo;t you worry about making the wrong call and losing money?
Let me say first that I don't like negativity. I am a very positive person who takes no prisoners and tolerates no bullshit. I&rsquo;ve been self-sufficient since that first golf-ball business when I was a kid, so everything manifests itself through my being alert to opportunities and having zero risk aversion. I jump in the deep end&mdash;it&rsquo;s just who I am. I would rather fail after I've tried something than never get off the ball and do it. So many people scare themselves into timidity. The fear factor is huge. But I&rsquo;m like, &ldquo;Why?&rdquo; You only have this one life here, so go for it. If it doesn't work&mdash;well, as an entrepreneur, I don't consider failures. I consider disappointments as &ldquo;practice.&rdquo; That&rsquo;s the tuition we pay as entrepreneurs. I&rsquo;ll tell you something else&mdash;I don&rsquo;t work with people unless I like them. I own everything 100 percent, so I can pick who I want to be in business with. It&rsquo;s not just about a good idea that might be commercial. I need to like the people involved. Then, I&rsquo;ll do whatever I can to help them reach success.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/QcCChUkmhS9VZk3Y3qEqxIwOvCiZaNCW54AGzspi.png" alt="" width="703" height="439" />
Female entrepreneurs networking as part of Burns' Millennial Queenmaker mentoring program.
In your opinion, what are some of the common miscues entrepreneurs can make when seeking funding or trying to manifest success?
They might have unrealistic expectations about what their so-called idea is worth. Honestly, an idea is worth nothing. Unless you can implement it, it's just another idea. You also have to be able to pivot. Think of the inventions out there that started out one way but became way more successful as something else. For example, Post-it notes were a failed experiment. A scientist at 3M was tasked with designing an extremely strong adhesive. Instead, he came up with a weak and reusable, pressure-sensitive adhesive. That mistake became a multi-billion-dollar business.
In the spirit of full disclosure, you and Burns Funding have been working with The Droning Company&rsquo;s CEO <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/our-team/stuart-smith" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stuart Smith</a> and President Don DeVille to secure working capital for us as we grow. 
Yes. The Droning Company has a unique opportunity because it has been positioning itself as an authority on the drone industry. Even better, you&rsquo;re not competing with anyone, really&mdash;you&rsquo;re enhancing other people&rsquo;s businesses. The Droning Company is gaining the loyalty of pilots, manufacturers, educators, drone-based companies, and others because it is a trusted resource. I want to get behind things like that. In fact, the relationship has already worked out very nicely. Stuart is getting the funding he needs, and, as a result, he is advocating what I do to other entrepreneurs seeking money. He has already introduced me to some other drone companies.
To better understand how Burns Funding works in a practical, real-world scenario, can you share any case studies or strategies with one of these other companies that are potential clients?
Well, I had a conversation with a flying car maker Stuart had introduced me to. The company had already received $7 million in Series A funding and was about to do a Series B for $35 million. I said, &ldquo;Let me get this straight. You are planning to sell these cars for $350,000 each&mdash;which means the prospective buyers are going to be pretty well-heeled&mdash;and you're trying to raise $35 million, which will dilute the equity in your own company as a bunch of investors buy a piece of it. Why don't you let me finance a hundred of these flying cars? That way, you&rsquo;ll get the $35 million without giving up a dime of equity.&rdquo; This was just a discussion&mdash;there&rsquo;s no deal yet&mdash;but it shows one of the ways Burns Funding can work to make everybody a happy camper.
Do you have any closing thoughts?
Entrepreneurship is the backbone of this country. We are the American dream. Entrepreneurs are the ones who innovate and create and start businesses, and we are about the only things going for the United States right now. We can&rsquo;t build anything ourselves these days, but we can innovate better than anyone. My mission is to get rid of the crap that&rsquo;s stopping entrepreneurs from being successful. I will give you what you need. I will offer my mentorship. I will provide resources. I truly believe that if you have access to capital, you can&rsquo;t be stopped.
&nbsp;
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://go.burnsfunding.com/drone" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Connect with Burns Funding</a></h3>
&nbsp;
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/VvYxLai9wdWrkqN2twx7MiawPxDjBvVrQRSHpRB3.png" alt="" width="912" height="593" />
Burns teaching a business class at Admas University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He worked in Ethiopia for more than six months with a humanitarian NGO.

“I Want to Be the Drone Financier”

29 August 2024
<a href="https://www.baldwinsms.com/uas-aam" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Baldwin Safety and Compliance</a>, a leader in safety management system (SMS) software, is teaming up with <a href="https://fruitychutes.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fruity Chutes</a>, a renowned parachute recovery systems manufacturer, to help more drone manufacturers and service providers make their mark in the industry through implementing opportunity-creating safety systems.
Truth is it&rsquo;s not enough to just innovate your own drone or launch a drone service anymore. If you want to make it in this industry you need to stand out. You must have a product or service so special that you become known as the leader in your niche. If you fall short in any avenue of your venture you risk not succeeding. One of the easiest areas to fall short in is safety systems.
Drone safety systems include organizational aspects such as pilot/drone interface through SMS software and physical safety with a parachute system if risk controls fail. These are critical in operating a top-notch drone or providing an A-tier drone service.
The challenge is implementing these systems can be tricky. They can be expensive, time consuming, and resource intensive. In addition, the industry is always changing with new regulations, technical advancements, and competitors.
Something like a proper safety management system (SMS) can easily be the barrier between standing out in the drone world or disappearing into the saturation. Baldwin and Fruity Chutes have joined forces so that more companies can succeed in their safety efforts.
This collaboration will combine Baldwin's expertise in safety management with Fruity Chutes' knowledge of recovery systems to create innovative safety solutions for the drone industry. The partnership will allow more drone companies to succeed in their safety efforts through leveraging each other's established customer bases.
Baldwin and Fruity Chutes look forward to working together to capitalize on the strengths of both companies. The collaboration will lead to increased efficiency and potential cost savings for customers.
The first of these collaborations was launched in August of this year. It involves Baldwin&rsquo;s SMS Software Platform and Fruity Chutes ASTM Compliant Drone ParaPrep Program. Eligible companies will now have the option to enroll in both at a discounted rate. Baldwin provides industry-leading software and consulting services for the implementation and execution of a robust SMS. Fruity Chutes&rsquo; ASTM Compliant Drone ParaPrep Program offers companies going through the process of certifying their drone and parachute system to the ASTM F3322 standard hands on guidance to prepare them for the third party testing portion of the process. This is done through parachute design consultation, custom turnkey parachute system development, prototype testing, and done-for-you parachute manual &amp; paperwork.
<h5>About Baldwin Safety &amp; Compliance</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/Jnlr05dTh4ErsjIId35DHJwilGW3QIdhKWzLEb7W.png" alt="" width="313" height="164" />
Since 2004, Baldwin Safety &amp; Compliance, an award-winning visionary in safety, has supported global transportation, manufacturing, and other industry organizations by crafting scalable and intuitive safety system software and related business support and training products designed specifically for their operations to encourage engaged safety cultures. Available 24/7, Baldwin&rsquo;s team of experienced and credentialed safety management experts supports all facets of an organization&rsquo;s safety and quality programs while conforming to international and State standards and regulatory requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h5>About Fruity Chutes Inc.</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/aqdSuQhuCdqIwnsqycTsyhTUazPUyqWIgW4E5mZ4.png" alt="" width="313" height="99" />
Fruity Chutes began manufacturing premium quality parachutes in 2007. Fruity Chutes has provided top-notch recovery to aerospace, consumers, institutional, university and corporate customers who demand exceptional quality, have exacting requirements and expect exceptional service in 2007. Fruity Chutes parachutes have been used for all types of rocketry, unmanned air vehicles (UAV) parachutes, multirotor and multicopter parachutes, drone parachutes, RC aircraft parachutes, and balloon research. Fruity Chutes has proudly provided recovery systems to over 4000 customers, in all 50 US states, all 7 continents, and over 100 countries.
<h5>Learn More</h5>
To learn more about the ASTM Compliant Drone ParaPrep Program visit: <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://fruitychutes.com/uav_rpv_drone_recovery_parachutes/astm-compliant-drone-parachute-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://fruitychutes.com/uav_rpv_drone_recovery_parachutes/astm-compliant-drone-parachute-program</a>

Baldwin and Fruity Chutes Team Up to Create Standout Drone Safety Solution

27 August 2024
The runway is short and time is flying fast. Here are some reminders why you SHOULD NOT miss this expo...
Industry Driven Conference Tracks
Dive deeply into&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12171.1.53e2bc8674e580d3fccde0fcddd6c3d5" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">specialized tracks</a>&nbsp;on Construction, Energy and Utilities, Infrastructure and Transportation, plus a new Policy track focusing on regulatory developments. Hear from industry-leading experts addressing pressing challenges and offering game-changing solutions. Keynote Presentations
The Commercial UAV Expo keynotes will address the acceleration of commercial drone technology's viability. Key topics include pivotal changes, challenges, and implications of FAA regulations, and how "drone champions" can enhance efficiencies for large public and private organizations. Keynoters will also discuss developments significantly impacting the drone industry. 225+ Solutions Providers
Connect with over&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12172.1.ed3a2a8aba52223594f207a783693d90" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">225 leading providers</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12173.1.5ad1e9504d80fa40fd09b7d712d32291" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3">maxed-out exhibit hall</a>. Compare and qualify hundreds of solutions and engage with technical leads and users to find the right tools for your needs.
New and Expanded Content
Gain insights at the&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12174.1.f911b472d1953c5c1d6082501a33f131" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4">DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Summit</a>&nbsp;and explore hydrogen aviation at the debut of the&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12175.1.ae1cbdaa7ef15c275ab2e6d278731b54" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="5">FLYING HY Conference</a>. Participate in additional education including workshops and Exhibit Hall Theater programming. Live Outdoor Flying Demonstrations
Witness the latest drone technology in action during&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12176.1.a6a533e124ccf50c846a16515efb53d3" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="6">Live Outdoor Flying Demonstrations</a>, showcasing real-world capabilities. Engage with experts as they narrate live scenarios and field questions. Pilot Hub
Enhance your skills with targeted&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12177.1.7be743638a4d556df5a534d9719f4ef9" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="7">drone pilot education</a>, whether you&rsquo;re a seasoned pro or just starting out. Embrace the opportunity to grow and refine your abilities with expert guidance, ensuring you reach new heights in your drone piloting career. Level Up Lounge
Commercial UAV Expo is partnering with Global Air U to co-host the&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12178.1.96ab407edcbc839b0f7cf9f8f607214d" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="8">Level Up Lounge</a>, an innovative space dedicated to personal, professional, and brand development. Unparalleled Networking
Engage with&nbsp;<a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12179.1.938f7ee08fa8814610b5bd811ee8546e" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="9">3,750 industry professionals</a>&nbsp;from around the globe. Participate in multiple networking events to exchange ideas, collaborate, and expand your professional network.
Commercial UAV Expo is backed by more than <a id="" style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://email.cloud.secureclick.net/c/15361?id=447359.12180.1.2c9489fc8c05ec84510d676bbfe99c87" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="10">300 associations and media companies</a>&nbsp;from six continents. Don't miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and grow within the commercial drone industry!
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/9oksd7zKBHyv3gy9l1QoqRRK6A1Rfi36rg7Iz1xV.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="129" /> Use code&nbsp;SAVE100&nbsp;for a FREE Exhibit Hall Pass or $100 off a Full Conference Pass.
<h3 dir="auto" style="text-align: center;" align="left"><a style="color: #ba372a; background-color: #f1c40f;" href="https://www.xpressreg.net/register/UAVA0924/landing.php?sc=SAVE100" target="_blank" rel="noopener">REGISTER NOW!</a></h3>

Commercial UAV Expo is Happening Soon

27 August 2024
<a href="https://www.discovery.com/">The Discovery Channel</a> documentary Finding Amelia was recently released, featuring an expedition in which the <a href="https://www.sphengineering.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SPH Engineering</a> team was honored to participate. The film details the expedition aimed at uncovering the fate of Amelia Earhart, one of aviation's greatest unsolved mysteries.
Amelia Earhart disappeared over the Pacific Ocean in 1937, during an attempt to become the first woman to fly around the world. Despite numerous search efforts, neither she nor her aircraft were ever found.
Over the decades, various theories and expeditions have attempted to discover the truth behind her disappearance. The recent Finding Amelia documentary by Discovery Channel marks the latest effort to solve the puzzle. This story began nearly two years before the expedition when based on SPH Engineering&rsquo;s successful <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://ses.prsts.de/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sphengineering.com%2Fnews%2Fsph-engineering-helps-locate-aircraft-buried-under-greenland-ice-with-gpr-uav-integrated-system%3Futm_source=website%26utm_medium=news%26utm_id=Amelia/1/0102019193aa4288-483c13e1-633b-4865-be3c-947521c856eb-000000/yv2GJupT_KFYdEz7hKoRaMCkF_jsCotI8W6huKBRwWs=367" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">operations in Greenland</a>, the company was invited to join the search for Amelia Earhart&rsquo;s aircraft in the dense jungles of Papua New Guinea on the island of New Britain.
<h5>Planning and Testing for the Mission</h5>
Preparing for this mission required meticulous planning. In February 2021, the team conducted experimental detection of aircraft engines using drone-mounted magnetometers, laying the groundwork for the technology that would later be used in the field. These experiments were crucial, leading the team to request satellite imagery and elevation maps of where the expedition was planned. This map was essential for studying the terrain and preparing for the mission. According to the analysis, the average expected vegetation height of 10m-15m appeared to allow the detection of aircraft engines using a magnetometer.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/avdkre5P76u7HYKddP2VCINMGct9rapcdnOw4jwK.png" alt="" width="674" height="379" />
Experimental detection of aircraft engines using drone-mounted magnetometers in the SPH Engineering Test Field.
<h5>The Drone Operation</h5>
In 2021, the&nbsp;<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://ses.prsts.de/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sphengineering.com%2F%3Futm_source=website%26utm_medium=news%26utm_id=Amelia/1/0102019193aa4288-483c13e1-633b-4865-be3c-947521c856eb-000000/lpx5jqI9qRro40ZaKFsGPr39EDx6wvRjLd6mDshARwA=367" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">SPH Engineering Team</a> arrived on-site with a suite of drones equipped with magnetometer, LiDAR, and photogrammetry tools. During the search, a small drone equipped with a camera was first used to create precise maps of the search area. These maps were essential for planning subsequent flights. The team then conducted LiDAR scanning from a safe altitude to build Digital Surface Models (DSM) and Digital Terrain Models (DTM) to plan magnetic surveys.
The next step was to conduct the survey using a drone-based magnetometer. The Team found that while the average height of trees allowed for the detection of aircraft engines using a magnetometer, the presence of extremely tall trees made magnetic flight planning difficult.
"In contrast to what we saw in satellite data available before the expedition, the average height of the trees was a bit higher," said Director of Special Projects from SPH Engineering, Janis Kuze. "But the main problem was real 'skyscrapers' towering up to 60 meters. These extremely high trees were totally missed in satellite elevation data. Despite the challenges, we had relative success detecting magnetic anomalies over aa B-17 bomber crash site."
 <img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/onCorgRjDbZoU6EYWkC0tA6QW2pSM9cBuGjR0aqu.jpg" alt="" width="679" height="322" />
Helicopter view of the surveyed area.
SPH Engineering primarily focused on the magnetometers, aiming to detect aircraft engines. However, due to the high trees and the limited amount of magnetic ferrous metal in airplane engines, reliable detection proved difficult. Although the technology is functional, it comes with clear constraints for such operations.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/CXMABPvomi7WcEgnun3wpWihbLErDyrD0yETM2JB.png" alt="" width="678" height="382" />
Planned routes for LIDAR scans in UgCS flight planning software.
Facing the challenges with drone-based magnetic surveys, the Team decided to switch back to LiDAR. It performed exceptionally well. Dozens of low-altitude LiDAR flights were conducted, using previous scans for flight planning, to build a detailed map of the ground surface beneath the trees. The results revealed what is believed to be hidden Japanese troop trails and something resembling the shape and size of Amelia Earhart's aircraft, the Lockheed Electra.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/07P6zDRvc4lpLfb2tkRli9EHCdE4uU7pWVfXaRTW.png" alt="" width="688" height="351" />
Processed LiDAR data showing the object resembling the shape and size of Amelia Earhart's aircraft.
Despite the challenges, the outcomes were extremely positive from a technological perspective. SPH Engineering Team managed to achieve significant advancements in both our technology and methodology, which enhanced the capabilities of the technology. This expedition also resulted in a unique and invaluable experience, equipping the Team with the necessary skills and insights needed for future missions in similarly complex environments. This progress is essential as SPH Engineering continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in their field.
"We view the expedition as a success on multiple levels," said SPH Engineering CEO Alexey Dobrovolskiy. "It gave us invaluable experience in extreme conditions and allowed us to test and enhance our technologies. We are truly thankful for the opportunity to contribute to such a historic mission and look forward to being part of similar expeditions in the future."&nbsp;
<h5 class="x_MsoNormal">About SPH Engineering</h5>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://ses.prsts.de/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sphengineering.com%2F%3Futm_source=website%26utm_medium=news%26utm_id=Amelia/2/0102019193aa4288-483c13e1-633b-4865-be3c-947521c856eb-000000/xAEDsCoTtkPcKnhlsse_0dmnEHxFqtzSy0LdM6ROVfw=367" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">SPH Engineering</a> is an expert in drone technology development, providing UAV software solutions, integration services, and custom development to advance drone applications for surveying, data collection and processing, and entertainment. Founded in 2013 in Latvia (EU), SPH Engineering has a global customer and partner network in over 150 countries.

Drone-based Magnetometry Joins Amelia Earhart Mystery Search

19 August 2024
Regulations aren't neccesarily bad things&mdash;after all, it's never an awful idea to secure public safety.
However, in the burgeoning world of drones, it might seem like some countries&mdash;in this case, Australia&mdash;are rolling out broader public drone services than the USA.
Check out the video below and tell us what you think.
Please email comments to <a href="mailto:mmolenda@thedroningcompany.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mmolenda@thedroningcompany.com</a>.
<iframe style="width: 686px; height: 386px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h1ovAsf1IO4?si=OWX2JamUY-AHYgba" width="686" height="386" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

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