This week’s “Around the Commercial Drone Industry” news round-up discusses new Federal Communications Commission rules regarding uncrewed systems operations, how UAVs will play an important role in a national data collection effort, and how public safety officials in Finland are using drones for sea rescues.

New FCC Drone Rules

IOT World Today reports on recent US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) action regarding drone operations. According to the report, “Most drone operations currently rely on unlicensed airwaves for communication and control, making them more vulnerable to interference.” Now, the FCC allowing UAV operators to access a “dedicated spectrum for control operations in circumstances where safety is essential.” The new rules were created “to ensure safe control of their flights” that “apply to operations in the 5 GHz spectrum band and are a necessary move due to the increased use of drones in the U.S.,” the report states. Also, the rules are part of the FCC’s National Spectrum Strategy “for the initial deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles in the 5 GHz band ahead of a future coordinated study with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the FAA.”

UAVs to Aid in National Spatial Data Infrastructure Strategic Plan

A piece in our companion publication Geo Week News describes how uncrewed systems will plan a crucial role in the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) Strategic Plan for 2035. Described as a roadmap that “aims to revolutionize how agencies will collect, manage, and utilize geospatial information across government, industry, and academia over the next decade,” the NSDI will rely on “Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, lidar, and multispectral sensors” to “collect the detailed imagery and 3D data needed to update national datasets, assess infrastructure, monitor environmental changes, and support disaster response efforts.” The article explains that “advanced sensor technologies integrated with drones and ground-based systems will allow for real-time data collection on air and water quality, soil conditions, vegetation health and other environmental parameters.”

Drones for Sea Rescues in Finland

An article in DroneDJ details how the Port of Helsinki in Finland tested the use of UAVs for sea rescue operations. In a recent test at Helsinki’s Eastern Harbour, Vuosaari, “a drone flew a rescue buoy to a fire department staff member acting as a victim in the water.” According to the report, “The buoy used in the test opens upon contact with water, providing immediate assistance to those in need.” The test was a success, leading officials to believe that drones “could help reduce response times by delivering flotation devices before human rescuers can arrive.