Jammer resistant drone designs spark search for countermeasures
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has driven another stage of evolution for drones and the counter measures to defend against them.
FAA releases B4UFLY beta app
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched the beta version of the B4UFLY app for unmanned aerial system (UAS) operators, it announced on 28 August.
The new app will be tested by up to 1,000 UAS operators and is primarily aimed at model aircraft enthusiasts. It gives users information on requirements and restrictions with respect to their planned or current flight location. The beta test will evaluate how the app functions and whether it has any software bugs.
The test will run for several months, after which a wider launch for the general public is planned by the FAA. It will be initially limited to iOS devices, but work on an Android version is underway.
The B4UFLY app's key features include a clear 'status' indicator that informs UAS operators of their planned or current location, information on parameters that determine the status indicators, a 'planner mode' for future flights, interactive maps with filtering options and links to FAA UAS regulatory information and resources.
The app uses the smartphone's location services to determine requirements and restrictions in effect in the area. The status indicator considers parameters such as airspace, temporary flight restrictions, proximity to airports, current law, and other FAA procedures and guidance.
The initiative is part of the Know Before You Fly educational campaign to educate prospective UAS operators about flying safely and responsibly. The FAA is a partner in this campaign along with the Small UAV Coalition, Academy of Model Aeronautics and Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International.
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