uAvionix Unveils CASIA G for Nighttime Aircraft Detection and BVLOS Operations
March 4, 2025 – uAvionix, a leader in the aviation technology sector for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), has announced the release of CASIA G Version 4.0. This software upgrade introduces nighttime aircraft detection capabilities, enabling continuous 24/7 Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.
With this enhancement, CASIA G now facilitates BVLOS operations at altitudes of up to 400 feet during the night. The Fort Wayne Police Department in Indiana has already received FAA approval to utilize this feature.
“The ability to safely operate our drones beyond visual line of sight—day and night—significantly improves our ability to respond to emergencies, conduct search and rescue missions, and enhance public safety,” said Officer Matt Rowland of the Fort Wayne Police Department Air Support Unit.
CASIA G is notable for being the first ground-based detect-and-avoid (DAA) system capable of detecting both cooperative and non-cooperative aircraft at all hours, thereby ensuring safer and more efficient UAS operations. Importantly, this new software update does not necessitate any hardware changes, making it a seamless upgrade for current users.
Jason Hardy-Smith, VP of Products at uAvionix, commented, “With Software Release 4.0, operators can detect aircraft, including small planes and helicopters, from up to 16.7 kilometers (10.4 miles) away at night, greatly enhancing operational flexibility and safety.” This advancement is particularly significant for applications such as Drone as a First Responder (DFR) programs and Search & Rescue missions, where incidents frequently occur after dark.
Key Features of CASIA G Release 4.0:
- Nighttime Detection: Detects both cooperative and non-cooperative aircraft at ranges up to 16.7 km (10.4 miles), providing comprehensive airspace awareness for nighttime BVLOS operations.
- Precision and Coverage: When multiple CASIA G units are deployed, triangulation technology enables accurate tracking of intruding aircraft, including their range, altitude, and GPS coordinates.
- Regulatory Approval: The Fort Wayne Police Department is the inaugural agency authorized to utilize CASIA G for nighttime BVLOS operations without visual observers, extending up to 400 feet.
The developments stem from extensive performance tests, and multiple FAA approvals for BVLOS operations are currently in progress and expected to conclude soon, further broadening the operational capabilities available to both law enforcement and commercial sectors.
“With Casia G’s nighttime detection, our department can deploy UAVs with confidence, knowing we have continuous airspace awareness and compliance with FAA regulations,” stated Officer Michael Hickman of the Fort Wayne Police Department Air Support Unit.
uAvionix remains dedicated to fostering innovation and facilitating the integration of UAS within the National Airspace System, ensuring safety for all users, both day and night.
For more detailed insights and related articles, check the Original Article.
