Panelists Topics
Program
Connected Skies | Connected Communities
With the pace of innovation — and the progress we are making towards integration—this is an important time to advance collaboration and innovation in the drone and advanced air mobility (AAM) communities. There is no way to achieve the collective goal of advanced aviation without working together.
This Symposium brings together federal, state, and local government officials, OEMs, third-party service providers, technologists, and end-user groups to equip each attendee with practical insights and updates from the Federal Aviation Administration and industry leaders working towards a more modernized airspace.
Themes:
- Connected Skies. Connected Communities: Delve into the importance of connectivity and integration in advanced aviation, benefiting both urban and rural communities
- Collaboration: Explore how stakeholders from the FAA, industry, state/local/tribal governments, and individuals can work together to drive advancements and foster growth in the drone and AAM sectors.
Sessions will come in several forms:
- Keynotes from DOT leadership
- Panels
- Workshops
- Technical sprints
Don't miss this opportunity to discuss regulations and technology with government leaders and industry experts, gain valuable insights, and be at the forefront of developments shaping the future of drone and AAM technologies.
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
*All times listed are EDT. All sessions are subject to change, and will continue to be added as the program grows.
0900 - AUVSI Welcome | Ballroom, Level 400
- Michael Robbins - President & CEO, AUVSI
0915 - Plenary : The Future of Aerospace: Integration of Drones and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into the National Airspace System (NAS) | Ballroom, Level 400
FAA leaders who are shaping the future of aviation will delve into the intricacies of integrating drones and AAM into the NAS.
- Tim Arel - Chief Operating Officer, Air Traffic Organization, FAA
- Jodi Baker - Deputy Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, FAA
- Paul Fontaine - Assistant Administrator for NextGen, FAA
- Shannetta Griffin - Associate Administrator of Airports, FAA
- Okeoma Moronu - Head of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs, Zipline (moderator)
1015 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1030 - Concurrent Sessions
- UTM to Enable BVLOS | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
How do we advance UTM to facilitate safe and efficient Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations? This session will explore the latest regulatory developments and technological breakthroughs shaping the landscape of UTM, all with a steadfast commitment to enhancing safety and regulatory compliance. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the strategies and innovations driving the seamless integration of UAS into the national airspace system.
- Benjamin Berlin - Aviation Counsel, Zipline
- Jessica Brightman - Manager, Implementation Branch, Safety & Integration Division, FAA
- Sean Cassidy - Head, Regulatory & Governmental Affairs, AIBOT
- Matt Satterley - Policy and Government Relations, Wing
- Dawn Zoldi - Founder & CEO, P3 Tech Consulting (moderator)
- Imagination Station: AAM Industry Use Cases | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
How are various stakeholders are reimagining our communities, alternate modes of transportation, and expanding aviation workforce and career opportunities? In this session, manufacturers, vertiport developers, industry, and local agency officials will share their vision for the future of AAM applications.
- Paul Brooks - Government and Regulatory Affairs Manager, Skyports Infrastructure
- Melissa McCaffrey - Head of Government Affairs, State & Local, Archer Aviation
- George Rey - President, COTS Technology
- Kevin Thibault - CEO, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
- John Maffei - Director, Portfolio Management & Technology Development (Acting), FAA (moderator)
- Can You Hear Me Now: Effective Communications in the NAS | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
Effective communication and information sharing between traditional aviation, large drones, and Air Traffic Control is essential for the safe integration of drones into the NAS. Flight testing is being conducted in Alaska to determine what information needs to be shared, and how, among entities for efficient air traffic coordination, especially around wildfires.
- Cathy Cahill - Director, Alaska Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration
- Ashley Ferguson - Vice President, Business Operations, Merlin Labs
- Wendy O'Connor - Executive Director, Advanced Air Mobility Integration, FAA
- Jimmy Smith - National UAS Representative, National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
- Michael O'Hare - Regional Administrator, Alaska, FAA (moderator)
1130 - Networking Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1200 - Keynote | Ballroom, Level 400
- Katie Thomson - Deputy Administrator, FAA
1215 - Lunch Plenary | Ballroom, Level 400
- A New Nexus in Texas: Delivering Commerce
Drones are revolutionizing e-commerce by delivering retail goods, medicines, and medical supplies directly to customers. This panel explores how lessons from these operations — such as overcoming regulatory hurdles, advancing technology, and optimizing delivery logistics — are paving the way for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions in urban and regional transportation, integrating seamlessly into one sky. Participants will discuss scalable solutions that transform both delivery and transportation experiences.
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- Eric Bergesen - Director of Operations, UPS Flight Forward
- Matt McCardle - Head of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy, Amazon Prime Air
- Blain Newton - Chief Operating Officer, BETA Technologies
- Phillip Wallace - Director of Federal Government Affairs, Walmart
- Margaret Nagle - Head of Policy, Regulatory and Community Affairs, Wing (moderator)
1315 - Break
1330 - Concurrent Sessions
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Innovations for BVLOS Operations Near Critical Infrastructure: Solutions and Strategies | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
Four presentations will delve into cutting-edge technology solutions that can facilitate the operations of drones and AAM in the National Airspace System, safely and at scale.
- 1330 - 1345: Viasat presentation
Explore how leveraging satcom as part of a multilink solution enables the consistent coverage and highly reliable communications which are the foundation for unlocking true airspace integration. Look at use cases for inspection of critical infrastructure near or within controlled airspace, or in extremely remote regions/those without highly reliable ground connectivity.
- Kristen Mineck - Manager, Aviation Standards and Requirements, AAM/IAM, Viasat
- 1345 - 1400: Parallax presentation
Building and/or monitoring critical infrastructure to support operations by various AAM vehicles/aircraft requires thoughtful planning and consideration to address the need for sustained operations. Liquid Hydrogen is a power and propulsion system that enables extended flight operations and with new manufacturing technology, could be developed and dispensed at airports in the future.
- Mark Haberbusch - President and CEO, NEOEx Systems, Inc.
- Bob Tanner - Executive Director, Aerospace Partnerships, Parallax Advanced Research
- 1415 - 1430: Deloitte presentation
Delving into the latest advancements and tactical methodologies is essential for conducting Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations close to vital installations. BVLOS is pivotal not only for enhancing operational efficiencies but also for ensuring safety and compliance near critical infrastructures, areas that are often difficult to navigate or have some risk associated with traditional operation. This session will look at pioneering technologies to heighten situational awareness, communication links, and autonomous navigation including stacking mitigations to support scalable operations for a variety of operating environments.
- Edgar Valdez - Senior Consultant, Deloitte Consulting
Protecting the Skies: UAS Detection and Mitigation | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
This panel will discuss efforts to reduce the risk of unauthorized drone activity in the NAS through policy development, test and evaluation, and operational use of C-UAS detection and mitigation systems.
- Keri Lyons - Manager, Airports Emerging Entrants Division, FAA
- Chris Senn - Associate, Holland & Knight
- Michael Torphy - Unit Chief, UAS & Counter-UAS, FBI
- Steven Willoughby - Deputy Director, Counter-UAS Program, DHS
- Brandon Youngblood - Group Manager (K-Band/GS-15), Air Traffic Organization (ATO), FAA
- Micah Campbell - Executive Director (a), UAS and Emerging Entrants Security, FAA (moderator)
Driving to Autonomy: Integrating Large UAS and Traditional Aircraft With Different Levels of Autonomy | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will discuss how the government and industry are approaching the integration of increasingly autonomous uncrewed aircraft into airspace operating environments.
- Bruce DeCleene - Director, Senior Technical Experts Office, Aircraft Certification Service (AIR), FAA
- Parimal "PK" Kopardekar - Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Mission Integration Manager, NASA
- Travis Mason - Chief Policy & Regulatory Officer, Merlin Labs
- John Sawyer, Sr. Analyst, Airspace Innovation, AFWERX
- Steve Bradford - Chief Scientist, Office of NextGen, FAA (moderator)
All Aboard With Airports: Airports for Drone & AAM Operators | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
With growing interest in bringing drones and AAM activities into the airport environment, this session will provide a primer on airport planning, design, and operations. Facilitators will use lessons learned and best practices from real integration examples to best explain airport management topics to drone and AAM operators.
- Michael Hines - Manager, Airports Planning and Environmental Division, FAA
- D'Lorah Small - Branch Manager, Airports Design and Construction Branch, FAA
- Jon Stowe - Airspace and Rules Specialist, FAA
- Michael Branum - Program Manager, Airports Emerging Entrants Division, FAA (moderator)
1430 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1445 - Concurrent Sessions
- Revolutionizing National Security With Drones | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
Federal national security agencies will highlight how they have used UAS for security operations.
- Sergeant Rob Campbell - U.S. Capitol Police
- Michael Torphy - Unit Chief, UAS & Counter-UAS, FBI
- Scott Shtofman - Director, Government Affairs, AUVSI (moderator)
- Uncomplicating Complex Operations | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
This panel will look into the intricacies of drone operations as we explore the multifaceted world of drones, addressing topics such as fleet expansion, the establishment of remote operations centers, and the effective implementation of one-to-many operations.
- Tim Beglau - Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA
- Jeff Causey - Owner, Causey Aviation
- Nick Devereux - Federal Affairs Lead, Wing
- Mike Ralich - Chief Pilot, UPS Flight Forward
- Russell Kline - Chief Regulatory Officer, Drone Express (moderator)
- Fly It: Engaging With the FAA | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will share how the FAA proactively engages with airports and external stakeholders interested in AAM. Panelists will share the FAA’s processes for understanding, planning, and enabling operations at specific sites.
- Shawna Barry - Manager, Environmental Policy & Operations Division (AEE-200), FAA
- Colleen D'Alessandro - Regional Administrator, New England Region, FAA
- Joe Galushka - Program Manager, Emerging Entrants, FAA
- Will Hutson - National UAM Representative, NATCA
- Mitchell Bernstein - Branch Manager (A) New Entrants Strategy & Integration
- Wonder About the Weather | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
How are drones revolutionizing weather detection? Explore the cutting-edge intersection of weather science and drone technology in this panel discussion. Experts will delve into the diverse applications of drones in meteorology, from monitoring severe weather events to gathering real-time atmospheric data. Gain insights into the pivotal role of drones in enhancing aviation safety by providing timely and accurate weather information to pilots and air traffic controllers. Join us as we explore the future of weather forecasting and the profound impact of drones on the safety of flight operations.
- Randy Bass - Manager, Aviation Weather Division, FAA
- Don Berchoff - CEO, TruWeather Solutions
- Nancy Mendonca - Acting Mission Integration Manager for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Mission, NASA
- Chris Theisen - Director, Research and Development, Northern Plains UAS Test Site
- Joel Siegel - Meteorologist, FAA (moderator)
1545 - Networking Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1600 - Concurrent Sessions
- Clear the Air: Stadium Temporary Flight Restrictions | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
Join industry and government stakeholders in a discussion on navigating temporary flight restrictions over stadiums during events. Gain insights into the coordination efforts and regulatory considerations involved in ensuring airspace security while accommodating aviation needs during major gatherings.
- Carl Blando - Sergeant Detective, Boston Police Department
- Scott Parker - Chief, UAS Security Branch, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- Michael Torphy - Unit Chief, UAS & Counter-UAS, FBI
- Brandon Youngblood - Group Manager (K-Band/GS-15), Air Traffic Organization (ATO), FAA
- Kerry Fleming - Manager, FAA (moderator)
- State, Local, Tribal Government Challenges and Opportunities | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
Explore the dynamic landscape of state, local, and tribal engagement with drones. Our panel discussion will highlight collaborative strategies and innovative approaches driving drone integration across various jurisdictions, focusing on economic development, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment. Join us to learn how government entities are leveraging drone technology to address unique challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth and progress in their regions.
- James Grimsley - Executive Director of Advanced Technology Initiatives for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Choctaw
- Mary Carol (MC) Chruscicki – Operations Manager, NY UAS Test Site
- Tombo Jones - Director, Virginia Tech Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership
- Grady Stone - Regional Administrator, Northwest Mountain
- Trevor Woods - Executive Director, Northern Plains UAS Test Site, ND
- Pamela Gomez - AUS-400 Director, FAA (moderator)
- Electrification and Infrastructure Planning for New Entrants | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will address planning considerations that will pave the path for new entrants into the national airspace system.
- Brittney Kohler - Legislative Director, Transportation and Infrastructure, National League of Cities
- Kevin Stork - General Engineer, Department of Energy
- Nate Ward - Lead - Charging Network Development, Beta Technologies
- Shawna Barry - Manager, Environmental Policy Division, FAA (moderator)
- Navigating BVLOS Without Visual Observers - Next Steps | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
Join us for a panel discussion on BVLOS operations without visual observers, as we explore the current landscape and discuss the future of drone operations. Discover what's on the horizon as we delve into the advancements and challenges shaping the next phase of aerial innovation and follow-up on the current progress and future plans being made with companies who have been granted these approvals.
- Eric Bergesen - Director of Operations, UPS Flight Forward
- Jon Damush - CEO, uAvionix
- Okeoma Moronu - Head of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs, Zipline
- Will Wheeler - Director of Operations, Phoenix Air Unmanned
- Rachel Carlstrom - FAA (moderator)
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
0900 - FAA Welcome | Ballroom, Level 400
- Jodi Baker - Deputy Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, FAA
0915 - Opening Keynote | Ballroom, Level 400
- Michael Robbins - President & CEO, AUVSI
0930 - Plenary: Fostering Trust and Safety in Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Operations | Ballroom, Level 400
Drone and AAM companies recognize the importance of public trust and a robust safety culture. This session will examine strategies for cultivating public trust while exploring the benefits of prioritizing safety in meeting regulatory compliance and enhancing operational efficiency. Through interactive discussions, participants will uncover methods for integrating safety as a core value, empowering team members to champion safety, and addressing public concerns about the safety and benefits UAS and AAM bring.
- Tim Adams - Acting Deputy Director, Office of Safety Standards, AFS-2A, FAA
- Becky Hooey, Director, ASRS, NASA
- Angela McCullough - Deputy Executive Director, UAS Integration Office, FAA
- Nathan Trail - Senior Director, International, State & Local Policy, Supernal
- Colleen D'Alessandro - Regional Administrator, Northeast, FAA (moderator)
1030 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1045 - Concurrent Sessions
- Enabling Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations for Public Safety | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
This panel will examine possible paths for public safety BVLOS operations. Public safety agencies will share lessons learned from conducting BVLOS operations.
- Brandon Karr - Drone as First Responder Solutions Engineer, DroneSense
- Chief Roxanne Kennedy - Chief of Police, Chula Vista Police Department
- Captain Mike Leo - Robotics, New York City Fire Department
- Michael O'Shea - Program Manager, UAS Integration Office, FAA (moderator)
- Enhancing Efficiency: Flight Standard Services Operations | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
Join the panel discussion featuring Branch Managers from the new drone division in Flight Standards.
- Rachel Carlstrom - AFS-740 Manager, Air Transportation, FAA
- Marcus Cunningham - AFS-730 Manager, Technologies and Standards, FAA
- Derek Hufty - AFS-750 Manager, General Aviation and Commercial, FAA
- Robert Stack - AFS-760 Manager, Safety Assurance, FAA
- Joe Morra - AFS-700 Division Manager, FAA (moderator)
- Ushering in the Third Aerospace Revolution: National Strategy for AAM | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
The Advanced Air Mobility Interagency Working Group is spearheading efforts to develop a national strategy for AAM that will foster collaboration and ensure continued progress in rapidly advancing AAM technologies. Established by Congress, the AAM IWG brings together Federal agencies and stakeholders to advance collective knowledge, focus policy efforts, and responsibly plan for the introduction of AAM in the future multimodal transportation system of systems.
- Julie Carrigan - TSA
- Wayne Cummings - Supervisory Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA
- Peter Irvine, Staff Lead and Member - Advanced Air Mobility Interagency Working Group for the U.S., Department of Transportation
- Nancy Mendonca - Acting Mission Integration Manager for AAM, NASA
- Shawn Kozica - Acting Deputy Director, NextGen, Advanced Concepts, FAA (moderator)
- Path to UTM Integration: Service Suppliers’ Perspective | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
This panel will examine the impact of UTM mitigation capabilities to enable safe day-to-day operations, including flight planning, data sharing, and equitable airspace access. It will also highlight strategies for adapting business models to thrive in the UTM ecosystem.
- Lisa Bee - Director of Air Traffic Services, Viasat
- Amit Ganjoo - Founder & CEO, ANRA Technologies
- Jarrett Larrow - Policy and Rulemaking Lead, FAA
- Basil Yap - Founding Member and President, AeroX
- Mark Blanks - Head of Global Flight Operations, Wing (moderator)
1145 - Networking Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1215 - Lunch Plenary: Global Collaboration in Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Innovation | Ballroom, Level 400
Experience a dynamic panel featuring top government executives and industry leaders discussing collaborative efforts in global aviation leadership. Gain unique insights into how industry partnerships are leveraged to launch new operations and advance the future of air mobility.
- Conor French - Regulatory & Policy Executive, Zipline
- Billy Nolen - Chief Regulatory Affairs Officer, Archer
- Wendy O’Conner - Executive Director, Advanced Air Mobility Integration, FAA
- Jeffrey Vincent - Executive Director, UAS Integration Office, FAA
- Laurence Wildgoose - Assistant Administrator for Policy, International Affairs, and Environment, FAA (moderator)
1315 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1330 - Concurrent Sessions
- The Good, the Bad: Wildfires and Drones/AAM | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
This panel will discuss how drones and AAM vehicles are supporting wildfire fighting efforts and the issue of UAS interference in fire operations.
- Mark Bathrick - President, Bathrick Aviation Consulting
- Dirk Giles - UAS Program Manager, U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Parimal "PK" Kopardekar - Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Mission Integration Manager, NASA
- Mirna Meyer - Air Traffic Control Specialist, FAA
- Jeff Singer - Unmanned Systems Project Manager, Colorado Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology
- Charles Werner - Director, DRONERESPONDERS (moderator)
- ACAS Xr and the Rise of Intelligent Detection Systems | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has spearheaded the development of the next-generation Collision Avoidance System known as ACAS X, poised to replace TCAS II while introducing a robust Detect and Avoid (DAA) alerting and guidance algorithm. This panel delves into the multifaceted landscape of ACAS X, a family of algorithms designed for various aircraft categories:
- ACAS Xa: Set to replace TCAS II on transport category aircraft.
- ACAS Xu: Engineered to execute DAA functions for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS).
- ACAS sXu: Tailored for small UAS operating Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS).
- ACAS Xr: In development for rotorcraft and electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
RTCA is actively working to codify ACAS X through Minimum Operational Performance Standards (MOPS), complemented by reference software code aimed at expediting avionics development and facilitating verification in the certification process. Notably, RTCA DO-385, DO-386, and DO-396 standards have already been published, supported by collaborative efforts from the FAA, NASA, industry partners, and extensive flight test activities.
- Fabrice Kunzi - Chief Product Office, SkyGrid, LLC
- Wes Olson - Leader, Transportation Safety and Resilience Group, MIT Lincoln Laboratory
- Brian Spinks - Chief Engineer, UAM/AAM, ACSS, L3Harris
- Christopher Swider - Senior Technical Advisor, FAA UAS Integration Office
- Brandon Suarez - Vice President, UAS Integration, Reliable Robotics (moderator)
- Vertiport Design | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
AAM infrastructure will be needed to support the first certificated aircraft. The FAA will update attendees on critical research, testing, and guidance development to enable vertiports.
- Robert Bassey - Electrical Engineer, Airports Design and Construction Branch, FAA
- Russ Gorman - Airport Research Specialist, FAA
- Brett Oakleaf - Laboratory Program Manager I - Partnership Development, Business Development Office, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- D'Lorah Small - Branch Manager, Airports Design and Construction Branch, FAA (moderator)
- Environmental Review for Drone Commercial Package Delivery | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
Federal environmental law requires the FAA to assess the environmental impact of approving drone commercial package delivery operations. The resulting environmental review process can be intimidating and laborious to prospective drone operators. This panel will discuss the FAA’s past, present, and future efforts to streamline the environmental review process for drone operators and how these efforts will ‘de-mystify’ this process going forward.
- Erik Amend - Great Lakes Regional Administrator, FAA
- Joseph Block - Director, Aviation, Minnesota Department of Transportation
- Jeff Causey - Owner, Causey Aviation
- Derek Hufty - AFS-750 Manager, FAA
- Shawna Barry - Manager. AEE-200, FAA (moderator)
1430 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1445 - Concurrent Sessions
- Unlocking the Skies: Navigating Operational Approvals for Innovative Operations | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
FAA regulators and industry leaders will delve into strategies for gaining approvals for UAS operations under Part 91, 107, and 135. Explore the collaborative efforts between regulators and industry, with a focus on package and medical delivery, operations over people, and infrastructure inspections. And, learn how this is helping drive innovation and progress in the industry.
- Derek Hufty - AFS-750 Manager, FAA
- Michael Minnix - Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA
- Vic Moss - CEO, Moss Photography
- Dan Ngo - Manager, Part 11 Petitions Branch, Office of Rulemaking, FAA
- Eric Schwartz - Senior Manager Smart Grid & Innovation, Florida Power & Light
- Lisa Ellman - Executive Director, Commercial Drone Alliance (moderator)
- Managing the Metro: Expanding Drone Operations in a Metropolitan Area | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
Explore the complexities of expanding drone operations in metropolitan areas in this panel discussion. Gain insights into regulatory challenges, technological innovations, and community engagement strategies crucial for the safe and successful integration of drones into urban airspace.
- Michelle Duquette - Portfolio Manager/Outcome Leader UAS and Space Operations, MITRE
- Matt McCardle - Head of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy, Amazon Prime Air
- Russell Viall - Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA
- Liz Forro, Senior Tech Advisor, ARM, FAA (moderator)
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles: Connecting AAM to Local Transportation Modes | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will discuss the intermodal aspects of AAM integration by highlighting benefits and future planning required to serve the surrounding community.
- Paul Litke - Director, United Airlines
- Jeff Luckett - President, UPS Flight Forward
- Ryan Steinbach - Aviation Policy Coordinator, U.S. Department of Transportation
- Kevin Thibault - CEO, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
- Jessica Sypniewski - Deputy Assistant Administrator for NextGen, FAA (moderator)
- Research to Reality: Harnessing Research to Advance Drone Technology | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
The UAS Test Sites are conducting research that will inform more advanced and complex operations This discussion will provide research insights that will enable the integration of drone operations into the NAS, which will unlock societal and economic benefits.
- Craig Bloch-Hansen - Program Manager, UAS Design Standards, Transport Canada
- Mary Carol (MC) Chruscicki - Operations Manager, NY UAS Test Site
- Steve Luxion - Executive Director, ASSURE (Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research Excellence)
- Michael Sanders - Executive Director, Lone Star UAS Center of Excellence and Innovation (LSUASC)
- Sabrina Saunders-Hodge - Director, Research, Engineering and Analysis, UAS Integration Office, FAA (moderator)
1545 - Networking Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1600 - Concurrent Sessions
- Connecting Communities: UAS Cross-Border Operations | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
Interest from industry and academia to conduct cross-border operations of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS)UAS between Canada and the United States grows every year. Responding to the need to regulate increasingly complex operations, while supporting long-term, safe UAS integration along the Canadian-U.S. border, the FAA and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) established the UAS Cross-Border Working Group (CBWG) in 2021. Panelists will discuss findings from their two years of work and exchange lessons learned, with the hopes to develop a mechanism to allow for these operations between the borders.
- Lorrie Fussell - Foreign Affairs Specialist, FAA
- Barry Koperberg, Founder & General Manager, Wings for Aid
- Jeannie Stewart-Smith - Manager & Senior Policy Advisor, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, Transport Canada
- Garrett D. Wright - Director, Customs and Border Protection
- Adrienne Vanek - Director, AUS-200, FAA (moderator)
- The Media's Perspective: Harnessing Drones for Engaging Content Creation | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
How does the media industry safely use drones to capture captivating content and tell compelling stories? This session will delve into the innovative ways drones are revolutionizing journalism, filmmaking, and content creation, and drone light shows, with insights from leading voices from the industry and the FAA.
- Brannon Anthony - General Counsel, Tyler Perry Studios
- Skylar Howell - Cinemoves, Inc.
- Nils Thorjussen - CEO, Verge Aero
- Kerry Fleming - Group Manager, FAA (moderator)
- Won’t You Be My Neighbor: Community Engagement for New Entrants | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This session will highlight the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders as communities consider new entrants’ operations and will emphasize the FAA’s primary role in safely integrating AAM and controlling the airspace.
- Caryn Moore Lund - Vice President, Public Policy, Regulatory and Government Affairs, Ferrovial Airports
- David Oord - Policy Manager, Wisk
- Deb Sanning - Regional Administrator, Central Region, FAA
- Kenji Sugahara - Director, Oregon Department of Aviation
- Beth White - Aviation Communications, FAA (moderator)
- Charting the Flight Path for Aviation's Future Workforce | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
With the rapid expansion of drone technology and the emergence of AAM, new job opportunities are on the horizon. This panel will delve into the strategies for creating and harnessing these opportunities, paving the way for innovation and growth in this evolving market. From piloting and maintenance to data analysis and regulatory compliance, discover the diverse roles that will shape the future of aviation.
- Erik Amend - Great Lakes Regional Administrator, FAA
- Josh Olds - President and CEO, Unmanned Safety Institute
- Diana Robinson - Project Manager, FAA
- La'Quata Sumter - CEO Founder, Focusing on Me
- Miranda Haywood - Supervisory Program Manager, FAA (moderator)
Thursday, August 1, 2024
0900 - FAA Welcome | Ballroom, Level 400
- Jessica Sypniewski - Deputy Assistant Administrator for NextGen, FAA
0915 - Opening Keynote | Ballroom, Level 400
- NASA Sky For All
- Akbar Sultan - Director, Airspace Operations and Safety Program (AOSP), NASA
0930 - Plenary: Weaving Threads of Safety, Innovation, and Collaboration | Ballroom, Level 400
- Jodi Baker - Deputy Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, FAA
- Paul Fontaine - Assistant Administrator Fontaine, FAA
- Akbar Sultan - Director, Airspace Operations and Safety Program (AOSP), NASA
- Keely Griffith - VP of Strategic Programs, AUVSI (moderator)
1030 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1045 - Concurrent Sessions
- Drone 101 for Public Safety | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
This panel will look at the regulatory issues and lessons learned in starting a public safety UAS program.
- Carl Blando - Sergeant Detective, Boston Police Department
- Captain Mike Leo - Robotics, New York Fire Department
- Robert Robertson - Sergeant, Arlington Aviation Division, Arlington TX Government
- Chris Sadler - Director, Virginia IPC
- David Smith - Technical Surveillance Agent, Virginia State Police
- Michael O'Shea - Program Manager, UAS Integration Office, FAA (moderator)
- International Drone Operations Beyond 12 Nautical Miles | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
Civil aviation authorities are seeking methods to approve operations of UAS beyond 12 nautical miles if the UAS are registered in or takeoff from their States. This panel will explore perspectives related to the ongoing efforts for these operations of UAS beyond 12 NM. Panelists will identify potential approaches and safety risk mitigations, discuss coordination with the air traffic authorities controlling the affected airspace, share any lessons learned and discuss the ongoing efforts to address authorities to approve these types of operations.
- Patrick Niven - UAS Manager, Chevron
- John Page - Air Traffic Supervisor, Wind Turbine Evaluation Team, FAA
- Andrew Ward - Manager Emerging Technologies, Civil Aviation Safety Authority–Australia
- Randy Willis - Senior Policy Advisor, Northrup Grumman (moderator)
- Navigating the Future of AAM Infrastructure at Airports | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will discuss considerations for planning and implementation of AAM infrastructure in the airport environment, including charging stations.
- Michael Price - Division Manager, Office of Airport Compliance, FAA
- Jon Stowe - Supervisory Air Traffic Specialist, FAA
- Jean Wolfers-Lawrence - Airports Environmental Branch Manager, FAA
- Keri Lyons - Manager, Airport Emerging Entrants Division, FAA (moderator)
1145 - Networking Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1215 - Lunch Plenary: Innovation and Sustainability in Drone and AAM Technology | Ballroom, Level 400
Explore how industry leaders are leveraging cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly solutions to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency and performance. Gain insights into the latest trends, initiatives, and collaborations shaping the future of sustainable aviation in the context of drones and AAM.
- Rob Goldman - Senior Manager of Air Traffic Management, Delta
- Derek Morgan - Senior Scientist, US Department of Transportation
- Jennifer Player - Vice President, Aviation Regulatory Affairs, Skydio
- Chris Rocheleau - Chief Operating Officer, National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
- Brandon Roberts - Executive Director, Rulemaking, FAA (moderator)
1315 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1330 - Concurrent Sessions
- Planning for Electric Aircraft: Fire Response and Ground Safety | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
As electric aircraft operate in the NAS, questions arise as to whether traditional firefighting response and tactics will address incidents with these types of aircraft. Learn more about innovative research and standards development underway to prepare first responders for interacting with these new entrants.
- Jeremy Casey - Airport Safety Specialist, FAA
- Brett Oakleaf - Laboratory Program Manager I-Partnership Development, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- Jim Price - Airport Certification Safety Inspector, FAA
- Robert Bassey - Electrical Engineer/Vertiport Design Lead, FAA (moderator)
- Innovating Agriculture: The Impact of Drones on Modern Farming and Mosquito Control | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
Discover how drones are revolutionizing agriculture and mosquito control in this engaging panel. Experts will discuss the latest advancements in drone technology and its applications in precision farming, crop monitoring, and pest management. Learn about the innovative ways drones are being used to control mosquito populations, enhancing both agricultural productivity and public health.
- Matt Beckwith - VP Business Development & Regulatory Affairs, Guardian Agriculture
- Joel Buettner - General Manager, Placer Mosquito
- Chuma Ogunwole - COO and Co-Founder, Pyka
- Deb Sanning - Regional Administrator, Central Region, FAA (moderator)
- Guardians of the Sky: Ensuring Safe and Secure AAM Operations | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will discuss the security considerations around AAM focusing on elements from physical security at airports and potential vertiport sites, data/cyber security, and airborne security.
- Matthew Land - Public Policy & Government Relations, Eve Air Mobility
- Julie Carrigan - TSA
- Michael Hardin - Aviation Analyst, U.S. Department of Transportation
- Micah Campbell - Executive Director, Office of UAS and Emerging Entrants Security, FAA
- Means of Compliance: Operations Over People | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
This panel will examine the technological advancements in parachute systems, their integration with drones, and their effectiveness in mitigating risks to people on the ground. Whether you're interested in drone safety, regulatory compliance, or technology development, this session offers a unique perspective on enhancing safety measures in aerial operations.
- Robert Briggs - Chief Engineer, Virginia Tech Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership
- Kim Luu - Engineer, Aircraft Certification, FAA
- Mack Martinez - Air Traffic Controller, FAA
- Josh Ogden - Co-Founder and CEO, Aerial Vehicle Safety Solutions Inc
- Mark Blanks - Head of Global Flight Operations, Wing (moderator)
1430 - Break | Ballroom Foyer, Level 400
1445 - Concurrent Sessions
- Safety Foundation: Integrating a Safety Management System | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
This panel will cover the principles of SMS, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying potential hazards, managing risk, and promoting a continuous safety improvement cycle. Learn how to effectively integrate SMS into their operations, ensuring that safety becomes a core aspect of their organizational DNA.
- John Illson - Senior Director Regulatory Operations, Merlin
- Joseph Marshall - Director, Flight Operations, Zipline
- Kelsey Muka - Branch Manager, FAA
- Russell Viall - Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA
- Martha Christie - Deputy Director, Safety & Integration Division, FAA (moderator)
- The Road to Autonomy: Investing in Advanced Aircraft | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
This panel will discuss how academia, government, and industry are working together to enable autonomous flight in advanced aircraft and the technologies that support it.
- Erick Corona - Director, ConOps & Airspace Ecosystem Development, Wisk
- Earl Lawrence - Chief Compliance and Quality Officer, Joby
- Danda Rawat - Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies, College of Engineering and Architecture, Howard University
- Kevin Schmidt - Research Engineering Psychologist, United States Air Force Research Laboratory
- John Maffei - Director, Portfolio Management & Technology Development (Acting), FAA (moderator)
- Navigating Compliance: Regulatory Solutions | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
Explore the latest advancements in regulatory compliance tools and use cases in the UAS industry
- 1445 - 1500: uAvionix presentation
What Now? Beyond Waivers and Exemptions — This opening session will explore the role of third party services in enabling regulatory compliant operations at scale. From operator and organizational responsibilities to the integration of surveillance, command and control, weather and UTM platforms, the session will cover what it will take for the next evolution.
- Christian Ramsey - Chief Commercial Officer, uAvionix
- 1500 - 1515: Airspace Link presentation
Join us for a live Demonstration of AirHub® Portal UAS Regulation and Compliance Tools - Including Surface Profiles, Ground Risk, Operational Risk Assessment, Population Density Mapping, Analysis and Calculations.
- Michael Healander - CEO, President, Co-Founder, Airspace Link
- 1515 - 1530: Tulsa Innovation Labs presentation
Learn how cities like Tulsa, OK are utilizing public-private partnerships to take the initiative in UAS adoption through the development of regulatory frameworks that facilitate infrastructure creation, integration, and innovative UAS adoption and use.
- Blake Ewing - Chief of Staff, City of Tulsa
- Justin Kits - Director of Public Affairs, Tulsa Innovation Labs
- 1530 - 1545: Qualcomm presentation
Collision management and obstacle avoidance are key to ensuring safe BVLOS operations. While strategic deconfliction is one of the major building blocks for safe operations at scale in BVLOS, tactical deconfliction based on direct A2A (aircraft-to-aircraft) communications also will play an essential role in guaranteeing safety in dense operating environments with a multitude of diverse use cases and operations. This presentation will discuss the importance of implementing a holistic approach to collision management using UTM services and A2A communications and regulatory solutions for ensuring safe BVLOS operations.
- Stefano Faccin - Director, Standards, Qualcomm
Air Risk for Drones and AAM Aircraft: Harmonizing Strategic and Tactical Mitigations | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
Join industry leaders and regulatory experts in a panel discussion focused on harmonizing Detect and Avoid (DAA) standards. Gain insights into efforts to establish consistent guidelines, fostering interoperability and safety across the industry.
- Conor French - Regulatory & Policy Executive, Zipline
- Phil Lozano - Program Manager, FAA
- Gerald Pilj - Lead Safety Analyst Engineer, FAA
- Jennifer Player - Vice President, Aviation Regulatory Affairs, Skydio (moderator)
1545 - Networking Break
1600 - Concurrent Sessions
- The Evolving Regulatory Path to BVLOS UAS Operations | Meeting Room 337/338, Level 300
The FAA is working to normalize routine, scalable BVLOS operations for drones. This is the next step in integrating UAS into the national airspace system (NAS), providing for significant safety, societal, and economic advantages and benefits. This action is expected to dramatically expedite the BVLOS) drones operations and create a regulatory approval pathway for third-party services, to include UAS Traffic Management (UTM) service suppliers. During this panel the FAA will outline what we are considering proposing as the framework for the rule and highlight what industry can do to support the development and implementation of any new FAA performance-based rule.
- Michael Beckles - Director of Policy, FAA
- Jessica Brightman - Manager, Implementation Branch, Safety & Integration Division, FAA
- Jarrett Larrow - Policy and Rulemaking Lead, FAA
- Nick Matlock - Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA
- Caspar Wang - Product Policy Manager for Emerging Aircraft, GA and Rotorcraft, FAA
- Brandon Roberts - Executive Director, Rulemaking, FAA (moderator)
- Airspace Access: FAA Digital Products for Drones | Meeting Room 339/340, Level 300
Discuss the technological advances that are benefitting first responders, commercial drone operators and the entire drone user community regarding faster access and airspace awareness when airspace is restricted due to sporting events or VIP movements.
- Captain Mike Leo - Robotics, New York Fire Department
- Mirna Meyer - Air Traffic Control Specialist, FAA
- Nathan Ruff - CEO and Chairman, UAS Sidekick
- Marcy Wolf - Program Manager, FAA (moderator)
- Gateway to Aviation: Grants, Centers of Excellence, Collegiate Training Initiative Participants | Meeting Room 341/342, Level 300
This panel will discuss how FAA is supporting the future workforce with funding and academic partnerships.
- Erik Amend - Great Lakes Regional Administrator, FAA
- Adrian Doko - Part 107 UAS Flight Engineer, Imperial Aerial
- Miranda Haywood - Division Manager for NextGen Procurement Services and Grants Management. FAA
- Steve Luxion - Executive Director, ASSURE (Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research Excellence)
- Kuldeep Rawat - Dean, School of Science, Aviation, Health & Technology/Chief Research Officer, ECSU
- June Green - Program Manager, FAA (moderator)
- Tribal Engagement | Meeting Room 343/344, Level 300
This panel explores how tribal nations are embracing drones for cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and economic development, while navigating unique regulatory and jurisdictional challenges. Join us to hear from tribal leaders, industry experts, and policymakers as they discuss innovative partnerships, successful initiatives, and the transformative potential of drones in empowering tribal sovereignty and advancing indigenous interests.
- Karen DiMeo - CEO, AERODiMeo
- James Grimsley - Executive Director of Advanced Technology Initiatives for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Choctaw
- Michael O'Hare - Regional Administrator, Alaska, FAA
- Dave Zahn - Research Pilot, NASA
- Bradford Drake - Program Manager, FAA (moderator)