Texas CRE News In Your Inbox.
Sign up for Connect emails to stay informed with CRE stories that are 150 words or less.
Unmanned Aircraft Has Potential to Solve Today’s Supply Chain Issues
An unmanned aircraft system test recently demonstrated how future commercial operations can solve today’s supply chain challenges. Hillwood and Bell Textron Inc. launched a point-to-point package delivery operation in North Texas at the AllianceTexas Mobility Innovation Zone.
The Bell Autonomous Pod Transport (APT) flew across the Mobility Innovation Zone (MIZ) and delivered a package to a landing area. The APT flew a preprogrammed four-mile route through the MIZ, launching from the MIZ Flight Test Center, flying in complex airspace and landing in Pecan Square, Hillwood Communities’ master-planned community in Northlake. The APT reached a maximum altitude of 300 feet.
Data collected during the demonstration will be used to support future standards for development and Federal Aviation Administration certification guidelines.
“This successful test of Bell’s APT at the AllianceTexas Mobility Innovation Zone highlights the potential for UAS to complete complex missions, moving the needle closer to connecting logistics operations directly to consumers,” said Ross Perot Jr., chairman of Hillwood.
The Bell electric vehicles can reach speeds of more than 100 miles per hour and have a baseline payload capability of 70 lbs., reaching 100 lbs.
For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Lisa Brown
