RuAviation

Test flights aimed at practicing models of unmanned cargo delivery took place at Moscow Aviation Institute’s Alferievo airfield, the MAI press service said.

The flights were organised as part of the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Up Great Aerologistics competition held by the NTI Project Support Fund together with the Aeronext association. The aims of the competition are to develop and test technologies for unmanned aerial systems, as well as to overcome the technological barriers hindering the development of the aeromobility market in Russia.

During trials, teams of industry companies have worked out solutions to ensure that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) carry cargo weighing at least 50 kg over a total distance of 300 km. In order to simulate delivery to remote areas, the UAV route included multiple intermediate landings at loading and unloading points without maintenance there. Using an airfield as an example, a hub model for UAVs was tested, including logistics, navigational, airfield technical and fire and rescue support. In the foreseeable future, this will enable simultaneous UAV flights in common airspace, challenging weather and ornithological conditions.

Mechanisms for registration and admission of flight participants have also been worked out, including document checks, pre-flight medical control, and, in the case of UAVs, technical performance control and tracking using aviation systems control technologies, which allows for a step towards eliminating technological barriers to the joint use of unmanned and manned aviation.

“The Moscow Aviation Institute, as part of the Priority 2030 programme, is implementing a strategic project called Aeromobility. One of the most ambitious and significant projects included in it is the BAS Polygon. During the project a program of infrastructure development at airfield MAI Alferievo has been launched that will create opportunities to improve flight safety, to conduct all kinds of flight tests and experiments at modern scientific and technical level, certification of aircraft,” the institute said.

The press service added that the prerequisites for the development of the range were an increasing demand for flight tests of unmanned aircraft systems from enterprises and design bureaus, as well as an increase in the number of drones being developed at the MAI.

“The polygon equipped with high-tech equipment and the BAS certification centre established at MAI, which was accredited by Rosaviation in December 2022, will enable certification work in the field of unmanned aircraft systems, as well as entry into a new market of testing and certification,” stressed MAI.