Recently, AUVSI filed comments in response to requests from two agencies for public input on their proposed strategic plans. Both the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are in the process of updating their strategic plans to guide actions in the coming years, and AUVSI jumped at the opportunity to emphasize the importance of unmanned systems across domains to strengthen and streamline America’s transportation ecosystem and leadership.
 
The core of AUVSI’s mission is to build, grow and foster a viable and sustainable unmanned and autonomous systems industry. Critical to achieving that goal is establishing balanced regulations and appropriate policies that support the development and expanded operation of unmanned systems. As these technologies are increasingly integrated into society, opportunities will unlock new jobs and services that benefit Americans – but to take advantage of this momentum, industry needs informed agency leaders at all levels, and especially in Washington, D.C.
 
Accordingly, AUVSI applauds both DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg and NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy for taking the time to review and update each agency’s strategic plans for 2022 and beyond, though we hope to see unmanned systems mentioned more prominently in final versions.
 
In response to the NTSB request for comment, AUVSI’s submission emphasized the following points:

• Appreciation for the weight “emerging technologies” including drones and automated vehicles were given in the strategic framework; and

• How the NTSB can work towards an informed investigative and regulatory staff.

AUVSI’s response to the DOT request for comment hit on the overarching goals below, and can be read in full here:

• How unmanned systems can and should support the DOT’s overarching strategic goals of safety, equity, global leadership, and sustainability;

• The importance of timely rulemaking processes;

• The importance of regular and direct engagement with state, local, and tribal transportation authorities;

• Speedy and less burdensome grant application and administration; and

• The need to focus strategically on preparing the future transportation workforce. 

As always, AUVSI stands ready to continue collaborating with federal agencies as the leading voice on behalf of companies and individuals working in the unmanned systems space, and toward a future transportation ecosystem strengthened by the increased safe integration of these technologies.