International aircraft management and charter company Mountain Aviation has received the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval to conduct commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drone operations.
Claimed to be the first FAA certified airline authorised to perform commercial drone activities, Mountain Aviation now plans to expand its products after receiving the approval.
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The FAA has mandated that the drones have to be operated by only licensed and existing airplane pilots, as well as directed firm UAS inspection requirements similar to manned aircraft in order to ensure public safety.
Mountain Aviation said that its Argus Platinum safety rating, along with FAA certification, has made the company suitable for safe commercial drone operations.
The company expects to extend its commercial drone activities to several industries and services such as aerial mapping, agricultural support, industrial inspections, energy system inspections, aerial video, search and rescue, forestry and wildlife monitoring.
Mountain Aviation CEO Gregg Fahrenbruch said: "We’re certain the impeccable safety record we’ve earned in our private jet business will set the bar for reliable and safe drone operations in the commercial and industrial sectors.
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By GlobalData"As an air carrier with full global operating authority, we have the ability to service clients both domestically and overseas."
Mountain Aviation currently has a fleet of 23 private jet and turbo-prop aircraft and operates flights worldwide, as well as provides aviation maintenance and aircraft acquisition services.
