Editor in Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida Thursday, March 28th, 2024

New Zealand Establishes Innovative Airspace Integration Trials Program

New Zealand Establishes Innovative  Airspace Integration Trials Program

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand government is establishing an Airspace Integration Trials Program to support the safe testing and development of advanced unmanned aircraft and accelerate their integration into the aviation system, Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods said on Friday.
The government will work with leading innovative aviation industry partners to test and demonstrate the use of unmanned aircraft for passenger transport, cargo delivery, agricultural services and hazard management, Woods said in a statement.
This builds on the potential for innovation under New Zealand's current Civil Aviation rules, and advances the government's vision for a thriving, innovative and safe aviation system, she said.
"The government is committed to supporting the growth of an innovative unmanned aircraft sector in New Zealand. We're creating opportunities to test and develop these emerging technologies to help make this happen," Woods said.
In another step to support the modernization of New Zealand's aviation system, the government will also reimburse aircraft owners for a portion of the cost of installing ADS-B transponders. The ADS-B Transponder Grant will be available to approximately 4,000 general aviation operators in New Zealand.
"ADS-B technology will bring numerous safety benefits to our aviation system; we understand small aircraft operators will face cost obstacles," the minister said, adding these funding decisions work towards a future in which unmanned aircraft could be a part of the everyday life of New Zealanders. (Xinhua)