Warm Springs UAS test range set for first flight

Eagle Tech Systems, a subsidiary of Warm Springs Ventures, an enterprise of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, announced Friday its plans for a first flight next week at the Metolius Bench Unmanned Aerial Systems Operational Site.

The first customers approved under the University of Alaska Flight Test Site National Certificate of Authorization to fly at an Oregon Test Range are the University of Alaska’s Aeromapper unmanned aerial vehicle.

Tribally owned Eagle Tech Systems announced Friday the first launch of unmanned aerial vehicles will take place on Friday, Feb. 19 at 1:30 p.m. at the Metolius Bench Operational site.

Light refreshments and a cake will be served to celebrate the inaugural flight, officials said. Cell telephones and cameras are allowed for use at the event.

“We are in a unique position in the growing unmanned aerial systems industry,” said Aurolyn Stwyer, business development and marketing manager.

“We are one of 12 test ranges approved by the FAA in the United States and we are one of three in Oregon, along with Tillamook and Pendleton,” she said.

“Our partner VDOS Global is authorized by the University of Alaska to process flight authorization within a two-week timeline, in comparison to six to nine months for approval by the FAA. Our mission is to provide services for our clients to fly faster, fly safer, and fly smarter.”

The Warm Springs UAS Test Range offers a turn-key testing environment for flight authorization, flight testing, evaluation, and a training center that will be located at the Kah-Nee-Ta Lodge and Resort.

“As a sovereign nation, we offer ease of services at our test ranges,” Stwyer continued. “For example, we have the ability to have controlled burns without having to get certifications or approvals with any outside entity.”

“We are focused on becoming a Center of Excellence for wildland fire management. Also, there is a de-energized power transmission line that will also be available for tests for that particular industry. The third market is natural resource management.”

Stwyer said the weather forecast is favorable for the flight testing by the University of Alaska’s “Aeromapper” UAV.

For more information, visit: http://www.wsuas.com/