Flight Operations & Testing
Accelerating Development Through Comprehensive Testing
Get into the air quickly with Aurora’s flight operations services. We plan, execute, train, and support flight operations for development and testing of new technologies, integrating unmanned systems into the airspace, and conducting research missions.
Flight Testing
Aurora operates manned, unmanned, and hybrid aircraft that can help accelerate your development and test cycles. With our operations expertise and versatile aircraft that accommodate a variety of payloads and test plans, we can safely test hardware, software, and procedures while efficiently delivering the data you need to move your program forward.
Remote Operations
Aurora’s remote operations centers in Manassas, VA, as well as our mobile operations center, are well equipped to execute piloted, remotely piloted, and hybrid operations in controlled or uncontrolled airspace. Our experienced operators and pilots can safely execute your mission to your precise specifications.
Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation
Aurora’s hardware-in-the-loop simulators enable testing of autonomous behaviors and other new technologies using exactly the same hardware and people as in a live flight test. Technologies are tested in a low-cost but highly relevant simulation environment to uncover needed improvements prior to testing in flight and to maximize program safety and efficiency.
Operator Training
Aurora provides training for pilots, remote operators, and test conductors to familiarize them with autonomous capabilities. Training can begin with our hardware-in-the-loop simulator and progress to our Centaur aircraft, in standard and remotely piloted modes, providing a cost-efficient way to expose students to ISR capabilities and test techniques on a surrogate unmanned aircraft.
Our Experience
From the North Slope in Alaska to the wilderness in South Africa, Aurora has conducted dozens of successful operations, proving the countless benefits of unmanned or optionally-piloted flight.
