Iris Automation demonstrates Casia DAA system for Reno Fire Department

October 27, 2020 | AUVSI News

Last week, Iris Automation conducted a live drone flight demonstration of its Casia onboard Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) collision avoidance system for the City of Reno Fire Department. The demonstration was performed under the FAA’s UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP). 

During the demonstration, which took place in Nevada over the Carson River at Fort Churchill State Historic Park, a drone equipped with Casia showcased how this technology will be used to provide automated situational awareness for drones and their pilots. Casia enables safe beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations.

“Through this CONOP, we aim to implement rescue operations supported by drone technology within the Truckee River region in the near future,” says Reno Fire Chief Dave Cochran.

“Water exposure, especially in moving-water incidents, is extremely dynamic and dangerous for victims and first responders. The use of drones will increase our safety and increase our efficiency. I’m thrilled that we’re looking for an innovative approach to help improve our river response.”

According to Iris Automation, the River Search and Rescue program will test the safety and capability of using drones during river rescue missions to improve response times and reduce exposure of both first responders and victims to dangerous conditions during river rescue operations.

Iris Automation says the program has the potential to increase the survival rate of victims during river rescue operations while helping to develop safe practices for drone usage throughout the United States.

“The City of Reno has been a leader in the UAS community, and this demonstration is another example of the application of these technologies for public benefit,” says Jon Damush, CEO of Iris Automation.

“Our priority at Iris is the safe integration of UAS into the airspace, and we are excited to continue our partnership with the City of Reno and the FAA to extend these capabilities to the Fire Department and First Responders.