[Avionics Today 04-08-2015] The FAA has approved American International Group to begin operating small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to conduct inspections for risk assessment, risk management, loss control, and surety performance. Under the approval, AIG will also implement a research and development program to explore new ways of using UAS to support its customer needs.
The global insurance organization has already established an international UAS research and development flight program in New Zealand to provide insights about technology, flight operations and image collection techniques.
“Leveraging cutting edge technologies like UAVs can enhance our ability to assess and mitigate risks to better help our customers and their communities prepare for and rebuild after a catastrophic event," said Eric Martinez, vice president of claims and operations at AIG.