[Avionics Today 03-20-2015] The FAA has issued an experimental airworthiness certificate to Amazon Logistics for an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) design that the company will use for research and development as well as crew training. The Internet-based retailer has highly publicized its desire to use UAS in package delivery.
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| Amazon Prime air delivery UAS prototype. Photo: Amazon |
Under the provisions of the certificate, all flight operations must be conducted at 400 feet or below during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions. The UAS must always remain within visual line of sight of the pilot and observer. Also, the pilot actually flying the aircraft must have at least a private pilot’s certificate and current medical certification. Additionally, Amazon must provide monthly data to the FAA regarding the number of flights conducted, any hardware or software malfunctions or deviations from control, among others.