With the first two FAA test sites for unmanned aerial vehicles now up and running, in North Dakota and Alaska, the introduction of UAVs into the national airspace is only a matter of time — and manufacturers and advocates say that time can’t come soon enough. The UAV industry will gather next week in Orlando, Fla., to show off all the latest technology from more than 550 exhibitors, arriving from more than 40 countries. Upward of 8,000 visitors are expected to attend the Unmanned Systems show, organized by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International. Besides the exhibits, the show offers a full roster of speakers and information sessions.
The program will include a long list of workshops, including discussions of the potential for non-military applications for UAS, privacy issues, and how to safely integrate UAS with other aircraft. General session speakers include officials from the military and government as well as industry experts. There also will be an area designated for live demo flights. The show runs Monday through Thursday, May 12 to 15. If you’re thinking of going, be prepared for the cover charge — a full conference pass will run you $1,109. There are discounts for AUVSI members and active-duty military, and students can get a full pass for only $210. Exhibit hall-only passes also are deeply discounted, running about $239. Editorial director Paul Bertorelli will be there to cover the event for AVweb.
