LYNN — The Aeronautics Division of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation will host an event on April 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 711 Lynnway, in honor of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) annual Drone Safety Day.
MassDOT Aeronautics Drone pilots will convene at the MassAutonomy Test Site for Drones and Advanced Air Mobility, where they will highlight the capabilities of several drone models and the potential use for the cutting-edge technology to transportation infrastructure management in the Commonwealth, as well as other cases of good public use that will be discussed by the pilots.
“We are pleased at the progress made by the MassDOT Aeronautics Division to advance innovative technologies, and are proud to showcase for the public Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) at Drone Safety Day in Lynn,” Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt said.
She continued, “Engaging with members of the community helps educate about this emerging technology, and promotes safety and innovation, two core elements of our goal to improve transportation in Massachusetts.”
MassDOT Aeronautics Acting Administrator Denise Garcia also commented on the upcoming event, where she explained her hopes and excitement.
“We’ve made a special effort to reach out to the recreational drone community for this year’s event,” Garcia said. “Each year, recreational drones occasionally operate in areas where extra awareness is needed to ensure safety. Drone Safety Day highlights the importance of safe, responsible drone use, including awareness of best practices and adherence to regulations.”
The MassDOT Aeronautics Drone Operations Program uses Uncrewed Aircraft Systems to support state and local agencies, municipalities, and quasi-governmental entities, according to the press release.
The Program provides services such as assessing the condition of critical state infrastructure, including rail and transit facilities, roads, bridges, and airports. The Program also leverages MassDOT Aeronautics’ Data and Analytics Team, turning collected imagery into insightful data and actionable information for public transportation stakeholders and decision-makers.
