K-State Salina offers free webinar for drone pilots about proposed FAA regulation updates

Applied Aviation Research Center advances campus’s mission to be a global leader in advanced air mobility.

By Jeremy Bohn
K‑State Salina

As the drone industry continues to advance and develop new regulations at a rapid pace, Kansas State University Salina’s Applied Aviation Research Center, or AARC, prepares the next generation of drone pilots to be Federal Aviation Administration compliant through world-class uncrewed aircraft systems training and education.

The Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, is planning new regulations aimed at standardizing operations beyond the visual line of sight for commercial drones. Currently, Part 107 regulations with the FAA do not permit drones to fly beyond the visual line of sight of the operator without a special waiver.

The new set of regulations will allow for more expansive uncrewed aircraft systems, or UAS, operations beyond the visual line of sight, impacting all industries, including agriculture, engineering and public safety.

Upcoming webinar explains proposed UAS regulations

With this immense change coming to the industry, the Applied Aviation Research Center will provide a free informational webinar explaining the proposed regulations on Sept. 4. The webinar will discuss the new regulations, including guidance on detect-and-avoid, minimum operational standards, certification and training requirements, and integration into the national airspace.

“The AARC has a close connection to the FAA from our years of UAS experience,” said Kurt Carraway, executive director of the Applied Aviation Research Center. “As the first university to receive a waiver of beyond visual line-of-sight UAS operations back in 2018, we have proven to be detailed and system-oriented with our operations. Training and operations on the new set of regulations are the next step in K-State Salina’s strategic goals that enable technologies to advance us in our work and connect the world in new ways.”

To stay up to date with the FAA and advance your training in UAS technology, register by Sept. 2 for the free webinar with the AARC drone experts at noon on Thursday, Sept. 4.

Leading the way in advanced air mobility

In alignment with K-State’s mission to become a next-generation land-grant university, the Salina campus has been tasked with leading exploration, integration and operation of next-generation, revolutionary drone technologies and air transport systems known as advanced air mobility — a rapidly emerging, new sector of the aerospace industry that aims to safely and efficiently integrate highly automated aircraft into the national airspace system.

Advanced air mobility is not just a single technology; it’s a collection of new and emerging technologies being applied to the aviation transportation system, including urban mobility, public services and cargo delivery.

K-State Salina is in a unique position to positively impact the aerospace industry by training thousands of drone pilots through the bachelor’s degree program and providing instruction to learners from many industries through professional education. The Applied Aviation Research Center is also conducting groundbreaking research into drone operations in natural disasters.

As the industry flies forward with advancement, K-State’s advanced air mobility research and education will help transform the lives of Kansans and those around the world.

Hot this week

Kansas Volleyball Announces 2026 Week 7 Volleyball Rakings

On October 21, 2026, the Kansas Volleyball Association released the final Week 7 Volleyball Rankings for the season. Rankings reflect team records as of October 19, updated post-regional tournaments, featuring top schools across various classes, including Mill Valley in Class 6A and Ellinwood in Class 2A, both with impressive records.

Valley Heights Schools Plan New Pre-K–6 Facility, Consider Consolidating Campuses

Valley Heights School District is planning significant changes, including the closure of at least one elementary school by the 2027–28 school year, as part of a long-term strategy to create a consolidated Pre-K–12 campus. Declining enrollment and rising maintenance costs drive this initiative. The district will evaluate options and engage the community throughout the planning process.

LISTEN: FBLA Week Radio Promos On KNDY

If you missed any of the FBLA promos playing...

First Hard Freeze and Frost Warnings Threaten Kansas and Southeast Nebraska

The National Weather Service has issued Freeze Watches and Frost Advisories for Kansas and southeast Nebraska due to an impending autumn freeze from late Friday night to Saturday morning, October 17, 2026. Temperatures may drop to freezing, risking crops and outdoor plumbing. Precautions include protecting sensitive plants and plumbing.

Investigation Underway After Inmate Dies at Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility

Authorities investigate the death of Joseph Swarts at Sedgwick County Detention Facility, with ongoing inquiries into the incident.

Latest Headlines

KNDY Area High School Football Scoreboard – 10/23/2026

In recent football games, Concordia, Hesston, Marysville, Rock Creek, and Wamego secured wins in the North Central Kansas League. In the Twin Valley League, Axtell, Centralia, Clifton-Clyde, Hanover, Troy, Valley Heights, and Washington County also triumphed. Additional victories included Nemaha Central and Sabetha dominating their opponents.

🎙️ K-State Agriculture Today: 2295 – Stable, But Tight Grain Market…Grain Economics

Kansas Commodities Grain Market Grain Logistics and Profitability First Kansas Freeze 00:01:05...

Thomas Lane Named Chief of Staff to K-State President Linton

Thomas Lane has been appointed as the chief of staff to K-State President Richard Linton, effective Nov. 8. Previously serving as interim chief of staff, Lane has extensive experience in student affairs, leading initiatives to enhance student success and mental health. A search committee will seek his replacement as vice president and dean of students.

Kansas Women Roll to Exhibition Win over Northeastern State

The Kansas Jayhawks dominated Northeastern State 90-43 in their exhibition opener, with five players scoring in double figures. Jaliya Davis led with 19 points. Kansas showcased strong defense, forcing 28 turnovers and excelling in fast breaks. Coach Brandon Schneider praised their defensive efforts and looks ahead to their next game on October 29.

🎙️ Coaches Corner: Frankfort Wildcats – 10/22/2026

Coaches Corner: Frankfort Wildcats - 10/22/2026

🎙️ Coaches Corner: Valley Heights Mustangs – 10/22/2026

Coaches Corner: Valley Heights Mustangs - 10/22/2026
- Advertisement -

Related Articles

Popular Categories

- Advertisement -