PG&E's Path to Safer Skies: Automating BV Loss Compliance

Introduction and Context

• The session introduces PG&E's initiative on automating BV loss compliance, featuring speakers Josh Hill, Catherine Nichols, and Matt Sloan.

• A reflection on the transition from a human workforce to a blended workforce involving AI and robotics is shared, emphasizing the significance of this change.

Speaker Introductions

• Katherine Nichols welcomes attendees and sets the stage for discussing safe and compliant EV loss operations.

• Josh Hill introduces himself as a PG&E supervisor of UAS Flight Operations, highlighting his experience with 23,000 employees covering Northern California.

• Matt Sloan introduces himself as Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, noting his extensive background in public safety and critical infrastructure.

Background in Drone Industry

• Josh shares his journey into the drone industry through safety initiatives at PG&E, connecting drone pilots with infrastructure needs.

• He emphasizes his role in ensuring compliance and safety during field operations while learning about drone capabilities for system protection.

Skyfire AI's Mission

• Matt discusses Skyfire AI’s focus on mission-critical solutions for public safety and critical infrastructure sectors.

• His role involves ensuring that responders have access to reliable technology and training while integrating various hardware options tailored to specific agency needs.

Reducing Cognitive Workload for Pilots

Evolution of BV Loss Operations at PG&E

• The focus is on reducing cognitive workload for pilots by automating repetitive tasks through AI, allowing them to concentrate on safety and operations.

• PG&E's BV loss operations are still in their early stages but have evolved significantly, initially aimed at long-range patrols and now developing into a robust dock operation system.

• Drones are utilized from a remote operation center in Concord, California, enabling missions anytime for situational awareness and minor inspections in hard-to-reach locations.

• The challenging terrain of California necessitates quick drone access to power generation sites, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

• Future applications of BV loss include corporate security and asset management, indicating ongoing development in this area.

Insights on Waivers and Regulatory Framework

• Matt discusses the significance of PG&E's approach to BV loss waivers, highlighting their pioneering role four to five years ago in establishing protocols within the industry.

• The collaboration with public safety agencies provided insights that were adapted for PG&E’s operations despite differing regulatory frameworks (Part 91 vs. Part 107).

• Controlled operations on private property allow PG&E to conduct drone flights without interfering with general airspace, which is crucial for safety around high-tension power lines.

• The development of the shielded waiver has enabled safe drone operations near critical infrastructure while minimizing disruption to broader airspace activities.

Long-Distance Flights and Remote Pilot Operations

• There is a growing trend towards long-distance flights and remote pilot operations; however, challenges remain as the industry transitions from traditional methods.

• The dream of autonomous drones performing inspections has been discussed for over a decade; recent advancements indicate progress toward this goal.

• While commercial delivery by drones was once an exciting prospect (e.g., Amazon), current priorities focus more on ensuring the safety of critical infrastructure through innovative uses like emergency medical supplies.

• Upcoming regulations under Part 108 are anticipated soon, which may further shape the landscape of drone operations.

Draft Rule and Compliance in Aviation

Overview of Upcoming Draft Rule

• A draft rule is expected within 30 days, with only 24 days remaining. This rule aims to provide a clear path for compliance rather than reinventing processes each time.

• The legislation will outline specific safety benchmarks that aircraft must meet, including necessary certifications and equipment like parachutes.

Concerns About Increased Accessibility

• While the easier access to flying drones is positive, there are concerns about untrained individuals operating them irresponsibly, potentially leading to safety issues.

PG&E's Approach to Compliance Automation

• PG&E emphasizes strict compliance due to regulatory scrutiny and customer expectations. They aim to follow regulations diligently.

• The UAS maintenance program has been integrated into the fixed-wing maintenance program at PG&E, utilizing existing technicians for better compliance management.

Importance of Partnerships and Technology

• Collaborations with companies like Air Data are crucial for creating automated systems that ensure compliance while streamlining operations.

• The focus on automation helps balance the excitement of drone operations with the need for rigorous compliance measures.

Enhancing Pilot Experience Through Automation

• Automation significantly improves pilot experience by integrating systems that streamline workflows and reduce manual tasks related to compliance checks.

Addressing Cognitive Workload in Operations

• As airspace becomes busier, automation is essential in reducing cognitive load on pilots by handling routine checks such as airspace status and weather conditions.

• Advanced technologies can facilitate multi-drone operations (referred to as "multi ship formation") for efficient data collection over large areas during missions like search and rescue.

Drone Technology and Compliance Challenges

Automation in Drone Inspections

• The potential for drones to conduct simultaneous long-range inspections is discussed, highlighting the need for automation to manage overwhelming data influx.

• The speaker emphasizes the efficiency gains from AI tools like ChatGPT, which can significantly reduce task completion times, showcasing a shift towards automation.

Future Airspace Management

• A humorous anecdote about drone activity in New Jersey illustrates the complexities of future airspace management with multiple entities (e.g., Amazon, Walmart) operating simultaneously.

• The speaker warns of potential chaos in shared airspace due to various drone operations and emergency services, stressing the importance of compliance to prepare for this future.

Maintenance and Compliance Requirements

• Discussion shifts to maintenance requirements for drone programs, emphasizing collaboration on compliance documentation and processes.

• Rapid growth of a drone program necessitated a reevaluation of maintenance practices and inventory management to ensure compliance with regulations.

Regulatory Challenges in Drone Operations

• The waiver process prompted an analysis of existing maintenance records, revealing gaps that needed addressing for regulatory compliance.

• Collaboration with aviation experts was crucial in establishing robust maintenance protocols that meet federal regulations.

Importance of Documentation

• Emphasis on the necessity of thorough documentation in aviation maintenance is highlighted as critical for regulatory audits.

• The speaker reflects on how initial lax standards in drone maintenance have evolved into stricter compliance measures due to upcoming regulations.

Understanding Aviation Maintenance and Compliance

The Importance of Standards in Aviation

• The aviation industry has reached a critical point where maintenance standards are essential, driven by the recognition from manned aircraft maintenance personnel about impending regulatory changes.

• Previous experience in power generation highlighted the extensive documentation required in aviation, which is even more rigorous than other industries, emphasizing safety.

Ensuring Compliance Amidst Growth

• As organizations scale operations with more personnel and flights, maintaining compliance and safety standards becomes challenging but crucial.

• The speaker notes that their organization has learned from past growth pains and now focuses on staying organized through constant audits and a robust safety management system.

Collaboration and Benchmarking for Safety

• Engaging with partners and benchmarking practices is vital to stay updated with FAA regulations, particularly regarding Part 108.

• Proactive compliance is likened to doing taxes; it’s necessary to maintain records before they become mandatory.

Lessons Learned from Experience

• A key takeaway is the importance of anticipating regulatory requirements rather than reacting after issues arise; busy schedules can lead to neglecting compliance tasks.

• Collaborating with internal maintenance teams allows for leveraging their aviation experience effectively.

Addressing Emerging Threats: UAS Security

• Organizations should prioritize counter UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) security as part of their foundational planning due to increasing concerns over critical infrastructure vulnerabilities.

• Recent global events have raised awareness about drone threats, indicating that proactive measures against potential attacks on infrastructure are necessary.

Future Directions for Drone Programs

• Anticipated growth in drone programs will require vigilance regarding regulatory developments like Part 108 while also addressing counter UAS strategies collaboratively across departments.

The Exciting Future of Drones in Industry

Current State and Future Prospects

• The speaker expresses enthusiasm about the current state of the drone industry, suggesting that this year may finally be a breakthrough year for drones.

• Recent executive orders emphasize the need to support U.S. manufacturing to reduce reliance on Chinese aircraft, indicating a shift towards domestic production.

• There is optimism regarding upcoming grant programs and regulatory advancements that could enhance innovation and safety within the drone sector.

Questions from the Audience

• An audience member inquires about technology used for compliance with operational standards, specifically regarding altitude management for drones. The response highlights the use of Skydio X2 dock technology and telemetry systems for altitude monitoring.

• Discussion on preventative maintenance metrics reveals adherence to manufacturer recommendations while ensuring regular checks every 12 months for platforms without specified guidelines. This approach aims to maintain safety and functionality of drones effectively.

Workforce Development Challenges

• A question arises concerning strategies to ensure a steady stream of qualified commercial drone pilots amidst workforce development challenges in the industry. The speaker notes their robust network of drone service providers as part of their solution.

• Emphasis is placed on internal qualification programs for pilots, including compliance checks and data tracking through air data systems, which help maintain high standards among their team members.

• Collaboration with local colleges is mentioned as a strategy to engage potential candidates through field days and public relations efforts aimed at increasing interest in drone piloting careers in California's Bay Area.