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AeroVironment Launches BVLOS Airspace Facility for US Air Force
New facility in Ohio integrates command-and-control system and airspace management platform to enable safe drone operations beyond visual line of sight.
Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:31am
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AeroVironment and CAL Analytics have launched a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) airspace management facility at the Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport in Ohio to support operations for the US Air Force. The facility integrates AeroVironment's AV_Halo COMMAND system with CAL Analytics' Advanced Air Mobility platform to provide real-time operational awareness and enable autonomous BVLOS drone missions.
Why it matters
This facility establishes a blueprint for how airports and states can safely integrate unmanned aircraft into existing airspace, supporting economic development and new transportation infrastructure. It builds on broader US efforts to enable low-altitude drone operations, including the FAA's UAS Traffic Management program and the US Air Force's work to employ drones across active bases.
The details
The BVLOS facility, developed under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement, fuses multiple sensor feeds to deliver situational awareness, detect-and-avoid capability, and machine-speed decision support. Pending full FAA approval, it will allow real-time monitoring, evaluation of airspace safety technologies, and validation of BVLOS rules. Plans are already underway to link Springfield with Columbus, Ohio, and expand coverage to additional unmanned aerial systems (UAS) corridors.
- The facility was launched on January 29, 2026.
The players
AeroVironment
An American company that develops unmanned aircraft systems and tactical missile systems.
CAL Analytics
A company that provides advanced air mobility enterprise platforms.
US Air Force
The air service branch of the United States Armed Forces.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The national aviation authority of the United States.
Wahid Nawabi
CEO of AeroVironment.
What they’re saying
“This latest installation 'establishes the blueprint for how airports and states across the country can safely integrate uncrewed aircraft into existing airspace.'”
— Wahid Nawabi, CEO
What’s next
Pending full FAA approval, the facility will allow real-time monitoring, evaluation of airspace safety technologies, and validation of BVLOS rules that can support economic development and new transport infrastructure. Plans are already underway to link Springfield with Columbus, Ohio, and expand coverage to additional unmanned aerial systems (UAS) corridors.
The takeaway
This new BVLOS airspace management facility in Ohio demonstrates how airports and states can work with industry to safely integrate drones into the national airspace, paving the way for expanded economic opportunities and transportation innovations powered by unmanned aircraft.
