A New Era for Drone Safety
Pierce Aerospace, a trailblazing dual-use aerospace technology company, has just secured a follow-on research award from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) to further its groundbreaking work on Remote ID technology. This marks the second time the company has been recognized for its contributions to the FAA’s Alliance for System Safety of UAS Through Research Excellence (ASSURE). Adding to the excitement, Pierce Aerospace has also hit a jaw-dropping milestone: 100 million Remote ID detections.
Aaron Pierce, the visionary CEO of Pierce Aerospace, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm. “We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with ERAU and the FAA,” he said. “This research is pivotal in advancing Remote ID technology, which is essential for making our skies safer for everyone.”
Scaling Up for Safer Skies
The initial phase of the project saw Remote ID sensors deployed across diverse environments—rural, suburban, and urban areas—to gather critical data on drone operations. Now, with the follow-on grant, Pierce Aerospace is set to expand its research to entire cities and additional airports. “This next phase will bring more sensors online nationwide, making the airspace safer and more secure,” Pierce explained.
Ryan Wallace, Principal Investigator and Associate Professor at ERAU, highlighted the transformative potential of Remote ID. “This technology is proving to be a game-changer for understanding UAS operations within the National Airspace System,” he said. The collaborative effort includes top-tier institutions like Kansas State University, the National Institute for Aviation Research at Wichita State University, and the University of North Dakota, all working together to push the boundaries of aviation safety.
The Economic and Global Impact of Remote ID
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is its cost-effectiveness. “These awards are cost-share, which allows us to collect significant data without breaking the bank,” Pierce noted. The data gathered will provide invaluable insights for the FAA and the broader aviation community, paving the way for safer and more efficient drone operations.
But the implications go beyond safety. Pierce emphasized that Remote ID is a cornerstone for scaling commercial drone operations. “It’s the most economically efficient and scalable airspace awareness technology available,” he said. This research not only underscores the FAA’s leadership in global aviation but also unlocks the immense commercial potential of drones.
A Leader in Innovation
Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Pierce Aerospace is no stranger to accolades. Backed by Techstars and a key player in multiple FAA committees, the company has earned recognition like the Techpoint Mira Award for Indiana’s most innovative tech team. Their work is setting the standard for the future of drone technology and airspace management.
For more information, visit Pierce Aerospace’s website.
