The “Aist,” a fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from “Aurora – Unmanned Aviation Systems,” has completed Russia’s first inter-regional flight under civil aviation regulations, travelling from Okha in Sakhalin to Nikolayevsk-on-Amur in the Khabarovsk Territory. This was announced by the press office of the “Aurora” airline.
“The flight lasted 2 hours and 22 minutes, covering a distance of 175 kilometres, with the majority of the route (150 km) over water. The UAV maintained an altitude of 600 metres, adhering to all aviation regulations without requiring designated zones or additional clearances,” the airline stated.
This flight retraced the historical route pioneered 95 years ago by aviator Mikhail Vodopyanov. That flight marked the beginning of civil aviation in the Far East. Now, the “Aist” has proven that UAVs can operate in the same airspace as conventional aircraft. The drone’s payload capacity is up to 10 kilograms, and it has an endurance of up to 4 hours.
“Aurora – UAS” specialises in freight transport and aerial photography using drones. It is the first company in Russia to integrate UAVs into civil aviation without exemptions from operational regulations. CEO Konstantin Sukhorebrik called the flight a landmark moment for the industry.
Preparation for the flight required consideration of challenging weather conditions and the Far Eastern terrain. The team worked in close liaison with air traffic controllers to ensure safety. Dmitry Tretyakov, Head of “Aurora – UAS,” noted that the company is ready for new challenges.
A pilot scheme for training specialists in the design and manufacture of light UAVs is launching in Russia on 1 April. This opens up prospects for expanding the use of drones in logistics and surveillance.
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