The demonstration will utilise Aeros’ 40D and 40E Sky Dragon small nonrigid airships, as the company also works on developing the 300-foot-long ML806 electric variable buoyancy airship (eVBA) to serve as the foundation for its proposed Airborne Fulfillment Center. In partnership with e-commerce fulfillment provider ShipBots, Aeros aims to streamline drone deliveries from the airship to customers’ doorsteps.

Aeros previously tested a prototype of the ML806, named Dragon Dream, conducting tethered flights in 2013 under a DARPA-funded program. However, the vehicle was damaged due to a hangar roof collapse. The company is now focused on constructing the ML806 eVBA and transitioning its airborne warehouse operations to this advanced model.

The Airborne Fulfillment Center concept aligns with FAA Part 107 regulations for commercial small drone operations while addressing limitations associated with urban drone delivery. Part 107 mandates that drones remain within the visual line of sight, requiring drone pilots to maintain direct visual contact throughout operations. To operate beyond these constraints, delivery drone operators typically must apply for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) waivers, which can be challenging to obtain, especially in densely populated urban environments.

Aeros’ approach mitigates these challenges by having the drone pilot and visual observer onboard the airship during deliveries. This allows the drones to fly short distances directly from the airship to customers, ensuring real-time monitoring and full compliance with Part 107 regulations. The FAA has confirmed its support for the demonstration project, which will take place in the Greater Los Angeles area.