This week in drone news: Seattle drone laws in question requiring permits for UAS flights, Virginia Tech has received the first approved means of compliance for category aircraft, and the Ingenuity helicopter has hit 30 minutes airborne!

A means of compliance has been accepted by the FAA! Virginia Tech has received the first means of compliance from the FAA. Details are not available on the actual testing method, however, this is the first step towards approved operations over people and category 2/3 aircraft. https://vtx.vt.edu/articles/2021/12/ictas-maap-meansofcompliance.html

The Ingenuity UAS has hit the 30-minute mark! The aircraft has flown 17 times, for a grand total of 30 minutes 48 seconds.  “Few thought we would make it to flight one, fewer still to five. And no one thought we would make it this far,” said Ingenuity team lead Teddy Tzanetos. “On the way to accumulating over a half-hour aloft Ingenuity has survived eight months of bitter cold, and operated out of nine unique Martian airfields. The aircraft’s continued operations speaks to the robustness the design and the diligence and passion of our small operations team.” https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/space-flight/mars-helicopter-reaches-30-minute-milestone/

Lots of people are going to be getting drone this holiday season. Pilot Institute asks you to do a few things: Be a good mentor and help educate!  Invite new folks with drones or those interested to fly with you. The more in this hobby, the better. Fly safe and Happy holidays!