At Melbourne Orlando International Airport (KMLB), Airport Operations Seth Barber has been leading the development of an innovative drone program. Built from scratch, this program supports a wide range of airport functions, including construction monitoring, wildlife management, hurricane preparation, and security coordination. By leveraging drones, airport operations can respond faster and more efficiently to evolving challenges both on and around the airfield.
Certification and Safety Requirements for Airport Drone Pilots
Operating a drone at an airport requires more than just a Part 107 license. According to Barber, pilots must also demonstrate significant flight hours, attention to detail, and strict adherence to safety. Drone operations at airports often use a four-person team:
- An Air Boss overseeing operations and tower coordination.
- A RPIC (Remote Pilot in Command) controlling the drone.
- A Safety Pilot ready to take over if needed.
- A Visual Observer ensuring situational awareness.
Pilots must also secure FAA authorizations, airport authority approval, ATC clearance, and even local police notification before flying. This layered approach ensures maximum safety in busy and sensitive airspace.
Real-World Applications of Drones in Airport Operations
Barber highlighted several real-world uses for drones at KMLB:
- Wildlife management: Tracking deer, coyote, and even alligators near runways, or dispersing birds safely without harmful methods.
- Emergency preparedness: Supporting mass-casualty incident drills, capturing accident evidence for the FAA and NTSB, and assisting fire crews with real-time aerial intelligence.
- Security and inspections: Monitoring construction, coordinating with law enforcement, and responding quickly to unusual events on airport grounds.
The Future of Drones in Airport Operations
When asked about the future, Barber expressed enthusiasm for innovations like “drone in a box” technology, where automated drones could deploy instantly during emergencies. While Part 108 and BVLOS operations had promise for commercial drone use, Barber emphasized that safety at airports demands visual contact and strict coordination with manned aircraft traffic.
He also noted the importance of staying “journey-minded” in aviation careers, like encouraging pilots and drone operators alike to persevere through challenges and embrace the evolving opportunities that aviation offers.
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