UAS Research at Saint Louis University to Improve National Airspace System

Saint Louis University purchases first Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) simulator.

Through a partnership with SLU’s Center for Aviation Safety Research (CASR) and Williams Aerospace, the University will research and train industry on technologies that improve national defense, scientific research, disaster relief, public safety and technological development.

The simulator will be integrated with SLU’s current Adacel Air Traffic Simulation, allowing CASR to conduct FAA research on unmanned vehicle integration into the national airspace system. Simlat, Ltd. is providing SLU with a full-crew UAS Trainer – a highly advanced UAS training system. CASR will train operational and maintenance crews on unmanned aircraft systems design, maintenance and operations.

Acquisition of the aircraft and simulator enables SLU to integrate unmanned aircraft systems into the University’s broad base of degree and research programs. Part of the partnership between CASR and Williams Aerospace is an internship opportunity for aviation students to work for Williams in their Honolulu, Hawaii facilities and be immersed in unmanned aircraft research.

“The main goal of CASR is to improve aviation safety. Through focused research on unmanned aircraft, CASR can analyze and enhance safety and further advance the use of this revolutionizing technology,” said Damon Lercel, program director of CASR.