Partnership Aims to Support Drone Operators in Meeting BVLOS Safety Standards
Baldwin Safety and Compliance and Fruity Chutes have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing safety solutions for the drone industry, with a specific focus on supporting operators as they prepare for the anticipated FAA rulemaking on flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). This partnership will combine Baldwin’s expertise in safety management systems (SMS) with Fruity Chutes’ experience in parachute recovery systems.
The drone industry is rapidly evolving, and the FAA’s expected rulemaking on BVLOS operations will likely set new safety standards for commercial drone flights. Drone parachutes are becoming an increasingly important tool for ensuring that aircraft meet these safety requirements. However, implementing robust safety systems can often be challenging, requiring significant resources and time. This partnership seeks to address these challenges by offering a more streamlined and efficient approach to safety management for drone manufacturers and service providers.
Combining Expertise for Industry Advancement
The collaboration between Baldwin and Fruity Chutes is designed to help companies navigate the complexities of drone safety systems, particularly in light of upcoming BVLOS regulations. Baldwin’s SMS software is known for its scalability and effectiveness, while Fruity Chutes is recognized for its ASTM Compliant Drone ParaPrep Program. By leveraging the strengths of both companies, the partnership aims to provide innovative safety solutions that can be more easily integrated into drone operations, helping operators meet the anticipated BVLOS safety standards.
According to the announcement, this collaboration will lead to increased efficiency and potential cost savings for customers. The first joint initiative, launched in August 2024, offers eligible companies the opportunity to enroll in both Baldwin’s SMS Software Platform and Fruity Chutes’ ASTM Compliant Drone ParaPrep Program at a discounted rate.
Supporting Companies Through BVLOS Certification
Fruity Chutes’ ASTM Compliant Drone ParaPrep Program provides companies with hands-on guidance through the certification process, helping them meet the ASTM F3322 standard. This includes parachute design consultation, prototype testing, and comprehensive support with the necessary documentation and manual preparation. These tools are essential for operators preparing for the stringent safety requirements expected under the new BVLOS regulations.
Baldwin’s role in this partnership involves providing industry-leading software and consulting services to implement and maintain a robust SMS. By working together, Baldwin and Fruity Chutes aim to make it easier for drone companies to achieve and maintain high safety standards, ultimately positioning them to succeed in a regulatory environment that will increasingly prioritize BVLOS capabilities.
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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