Unmanned Air Vehicles: Here, There and Everywhere

By Shawn Wilson and Zachary Downes

Drones at Kent State

Kent State began offering a minor in Unmanned Air Vehicles in 2014. A UAV is a remote or computer controlled vehicle that doesn’t require a human to personally operate it. This minor falls under the aeronautic department and is relevant because of the growth and use of unmanned air vehicles. Kent State is one of the first universities in the region to begin offering a program like this.

One of the purposes for this minor is to have Kent State students grow and develop this technology and incorporate it into everyday american life. Having this minor available here has been a nice draw for students who are particularly interested in unmanned air vehicles.

Drones In Industry

UAVs are being used in a number of different industries ranging from farming to photography. They are revolutionizing any industry they touch and they are just going to get bigger and better.

In farming drones are being used to fly over fields and observe the crops. Which is much more cost efficient than flying a manned aircraft or helicopter over the field.

Photography is probably the most common use of unmanned air vehicles. Drones have literally taken this industry to new heights. Photographers can capture spectacular images from a birds-eye view. B&H photo has gathered three videos demonstrating the awesome capabilities of drones.

Drones at Other Universities

Kent State is currently working on its own drone policy collaborating with students and staff in the aeronautics department here. Other Universities have already made policies regarding drones though.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s policy is “At this time, it is not permissible for individual students, staff or outside entities to operate unmanned aircraft/drones on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, interiors or exteriors.  This is due to both Federal Aviation Association requirements, and risk management/liability issues.” But there are exceptions when being used for official business, research, teaching or when law enforcement agencies are involved.

Indiana University has different approach to their policy. Their policy states “The operation of unmanned aircraft systems including drones and model aircraft is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and relevant state law. Indiana University will establish procedures required to ensure compliance with those legal obligations and to reduce risks to safety, security and privacy.” The University allows drones but they have to operated according to FAA standards, this policy is subject to change with any change in the FAA standards involving unmanned air vehicles.