NASA reportedly tested new drone airspace management technology designed to improve wildfire response operations in November 2024.
AirSpace Integration (ASI) supported the testing, which took place at Monterey Bay Academy Airport in La Selva Beach, California.
NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project conducted the tests to assess the Portable Airspace Management System (PAMS).
The system allows drone pilots to safely deploy aircraft in wildfire environments.
Each PAMS unit includes a computer for airspace management, a radio for communication, and an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast receiver to monitor nearby aircraft.
Researchers from NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley tested multiple PAMS units, evaluating their ability to coordinate through aerial communication relays under real-world conditions.
ASI provided its testing facility to support the campaign.
Chris Bley, founder of ASI, said: “This event showcased the tremendous potential of drone test sites in advancing technologies that address real-world challenges.
“We are honored to collaborate with NASA and industry partners on this vital initiative and look forward to continuing these efforts in spring 2025 to enhance emergency response capabilities nationwide.”
ASI operates under an FAA Certificate of Authorization (COA) and provides dedicated test zones for advanced aerial research.
The company’s facility at Monterey Bay Academy includes a 2,200-foot grass airfield, access to Class G airspace, and a Naval Research Lab weather station for real-time meteorological data.
The site also offers a coastal testing environment near Monterey Bay, supporting research on maritime drone applications.
ASI’s location enables a range of flight operations, including uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) testing alongside general aviation traffic.
ASI integrates an educational focus into its operations, offering hands-on learning experiences to support future aviation professionals.
ASI implements safety protocols to manage airspace coordination during drone testing.
The company employs a team of experienced aviation professionals and uses chase pilots, boats, and ground-based observers to monitor operations.
Its advanced systems provide real-time air traffic deconfliction to support safe coordination in complex airspace.
ASI collaborates with public and governmental organizations to maintain safety standards in unmanned aviation.
Bley added: “ASI is proud to support NASA’s ACERO tests, which advance the adoption of safe, coordinated, and efficient emergency response operations using cutting-edge drone and communications technologies within the FAA’s National Airspace System.”
NASA plans to continue testing drone technologies for emergency response in 2025.
The ACERO project aims to refine PAMS and other airspace management solutions to improve the deployment of uncrewed aircraft in wildfire operations.
Future tests will evaluate additional communication strategies and data-sharing capabilities to enhance coordination between drone operators, emergency responders, and the FAA’s National Airspace System.
NASA conducted a flight test in November 2024 to evaluate the Portable Airspace Management System (PAMS) for wildfire response.
The test took place at Monterey Bay Academy Airport in La Selva Beach, California, as part of the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project.
AirSpace Integration (ASI) supported the tests by providing its dedicated drone testing facility.
PAMS is designed to enable safe drone deployment in wildfire operations by integrating airspace management tools, communication systems, and real-time air traffic monitoring.
NASA’s Ames Research Center researchers tested multiple PAMS units under simulated conditions.
ASI operates an FAA-approved test site for aerial research, including a 2,200-foot grass airfield and access to Class G airspace.
The company enforces strict safety measures, employing chase pilots and ground-based observers.
NASA plans additional tests in 2025 to refine PAMS and improve emergency drone coordination within the National Airspace System.
