The Northern Plains UAS Test Site has been a leader in the constantly evolving UAS industry for more than a decade. Our experts offer UAS and drone consulting to share best practices and provide operational support.
Operational Expertise Ready to Help
Operator Permits and Certificates
The NPUASTS simplifies one of the most complex barriers to flight: operational and airspace approvals, waivers, and temporary airworthiness acceptance, and certifications.
For companies operating independently, the burden falls entirely on the operator to prove to the FAA that their aircraft, pilots, safety systems, and operational processes meet regulatory requirements. By working with us, much of that burden is removed. Clients operate under our established approvals and oversight, or under specifically built new approval unique to their operations, eliminating the need for immediate Part 107 pilot certification requirements, extensive documentation, and standalone safety cases at the early stages of development. We provide a guided, scalable pathway to operational readiness.
Operations Support and Flight Coordination
We provide comprehensive ops support and flight coordination that extends far beyond traditional test site capabilities. We're a strategic partner, helping operators navigate complex operational challenges, align short- and long-term goals, and bring together the right resources to successfully execute missions.
From a tactical standpoint, the NPUASTS delivers turnkey field operations and coordination support wherever missions are needed. This includes mobile operations trailers deployable across the country, real-time data collection platforms, and environmental monitoring capabilities. We also can provide trained personnel including pilots, visual observers, and data specialists to move programs forward.
Safety Management Systems and Data Security
Safety Management Systems are fundamental to safe and scalable UAS operations. Through structured hazard identification, safety risk analysis, and continuous safety monitoring, SMS enable organizations to proactively manage risk while supporting complex flight testing and integration activities. This systematic approach ensures operational decisions are informed by data, documented processes, and established safety controls.
We provide a highly structured operational environment where safety management is integrated directly into daily operations, including in our General Operations Manual (GOM). We have developed unique SMS framework, policies and procedures, specifically for UAS operation. Structured safety risk management processes and operational reviews allow our team to identify and address risks early, supporting the safe testing of emerging technologies and advanced operational concepts. Clear operational procedures and responsible handling of operational data help ensure that partner technologies, flight information, and mission activities are managed with care and integrity.
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Tap into our UAS consulting experience and get your project off the ground.