Drone Pilot Training a Constant Learning Exercise: Cramex

Q: How has your work with drones and unmanned aerial systems (RPAS) advanced, recently?

A: Our main emphasis has been on pilot training. We began in 2016 as the first school authorized by the Federal Agency of Civil Aviation (AFAC) to train drone pilots, offering licenses that have been issued by AFAC since that year. To date, we have certified more than 3,500 pilots in Mexico. We are closing 2024 with 23 groups that have worked throughout the year on drone pilot training. In 2018, we also obtained authorization from AFAC to offer courses for pilots operating drones over 25kg, such as crop-spraying drones.

We have advanced our certification for drone mechanics and maintenance technicians. Starting next year, AFAC will begin issuing licenses for drone maintenance technicians, marking a significant step forward. We are also working closely with a company called Air Mobility, which develops manned drones capable of transporting people. The drone is manufactured by the Chinese company EHang and is called the EHang 216, which has the capacity to transport two passengers.

Q: How have technological advances impacted drone training, and what changes have you implemented to keep the training up to date?

A: Technological advances in the drone industry have been significant. The capabilities of drones in 2016 and 2017, given the technology of that time, are now vastly different. We have adjusted our study programs and teaching materials to stay updated with the rapid technological progress.

Just like with smartphones, when you buy a drone, within three to four months a more advanced model is released, with better autonomy and features. This forces us, as trainers, to constantly adapt and stay current. Initially, training sessions were general, covering topics like communications, navigation, air safety, regulations, and risk analysis. Today, we use flight simulators, conduct field practices, and perform more complex exercises. Pilots now work with flight simulators, where they must complete specific challenges within a set time frame, which helps improve their skills. In the field, we use obstacle courses with arches, flags, and inflatable objects to make training more dynamic. This allows us to assess not just maneuvering skills but also situational awareness and the pilot's ability to manage the drone effectively.

Q: What are the main operational differences between small drones and larger ones, such as crop-spraying drones?

A: Large drones, like crop-spraying ones, are generally more autonomous. You can program a flight path over a specific area, and the drone will carry out the mission autonomously. The pilot does not need to constantly control the drone but must remain alert for any potential issues that require them to take manual control. In contrast, small drones require more constant manual control from the pilot.

Another key difference lies in fixed-wing drones used for photogrammetry. These drones can fly farther and at higher altitudes, carrying LiDAR cameras that scan the terrain using laser beams to create 3D models of the area. These larger drones can weigh more than 25kg due to the weight of the cameras and other equipment they carry.

Q: What are the major trends regarding the integration of drones into controlled airspace, and how is the industry addressing potential challenges?

A: Currently, drones are equipped with a system called AirSense, which allows them to detect nearby manned aircraft. However, manned aircraft still cannot detect drones. A significant challenge is developing technology that enables drones to be detected by air traffic control systems and ensuring drone operators can see the locations of other drones in flight.

The airspace is divided into different segments (A, B, C, G), and drones are only allowed to fly in uncontrolled airspace (G), where there are no commercial aircraft. The trend is to create systems that allow drones to fly safely in controlled airspace and enable manned aircraft to detect drones, thus preventing collisions.

Another important challenge is the creation of robust and up-to-date regulations for drone operations, considering the rapid technological advances and the new types of operations that are being carried out. Regulations must also ensure safety and prevent incidents, especially with the increasing use of drones for illegal activities.

Q: What collaborations have you established with universities to support young talent in the drone industry?

A: We have recently established partnerships with universities, particularly those offering aerospace or aeronautical engineering programs. We have an agreement with IPN to support a team working on satellite projects. We also have agreements with Instituto Tecnológico de Ecatepec in the State of Mexico, where students from digital careers are doing internships, as well as with Instituto Politécnico de Hidalgo.

Q: How are you working with local institutions to help retain talent and encourage young professionals to stay and innovate within Mexico's drone sector?

A: In addition to our university partnerships, we are also involved in the aerospace cluster in the State of Mexico. We have collaborated with Universidad Politécnica de Texcoco, giving conferences about the challenges and applications of drones. We are committed to supporting local youth, retaining talent, and encouraging them to stay and work on innovative projects within Mexico’s drone industry.

Q: What are your key projects for next year?

A: One of our projects for next year is the second edition of the Operational Safety Congress for Drones, which was very successful last year. Attendees were extremely satisfied, so we are organizing a second edition, which will likely take place in June or late September to avoid overlapping with the summer holidays.

We will continue promoting licensed pilot training, though we recognize that the cost of certification can be a challenge due to regulatory fees. For those who cannot afford the full license, we are organizing informative workshops in different cities, including Merida, Monterrey, and Guadalajara, where costs will be more accessible.

Q: What future developments do you anticipate in the field of manned drones, and how are you preparing for them?

A: We expect these drones will soon be operational in Mexico. Manned drones are one of the most futuristic trends in the drone industry, and we are preparing for the developments and challenges that come with this innovative technology.