ZenaTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZENA) has announced that its subsidiary, ZenaDrone, has commenced aerial operations to provide commercial drone services in the United States. This milestone comes after the company received exemption approval from the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA), marking a significant advancement in the commercialization of drone technology in the US market.
The company plans to establish Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) operations, initially through its Phoenix, Arizona office. ZenaDrone will offer its drone hardware and software solutions, specifically the ZenaDrone 1000 product, for various applications including land surveying, inspection, monitoring, and tracking. This move is expected to build up the necessary flight hours and airworthiness accreditation required for full commercial operations.
ZenaTech is also in the process of applying for an aerial spraying license (14 CFR Part 137) from the FAA. This additional certification would allow the company to use the ZenaDrone 1000 for agricultural purposes such as plant nourishment, soil treatment, and pest control, further expanding its potential market reach.
The FAA approval process, which took over a year and a half to complete, enables ZenaDrone to conduct visual line-of-sight commercial applications and data collection in the US, subject to specified conditions and limitations. This development is crucial for the company as it allows for live testing, evaluation, and demonstration of the ZenaDrone 1000 with US-based customers and partners.
The implications of this announcement are significant for both ZenaTech and the broader drone industry. As commercial drone services become more accessible and regulated, industries such as agriculture, construction, and infrastructure inspection stand to benefit from increased efficiency and data collection capabilities. The ability to operate commercially in the US market opens up substantial revenue opportunities for ZenaTech and positions the company as a key player in the growing drone services sector.
ZenaTech's CEO, Dr. Shaun Passley, Ph.D., expressed enthusiasm about the commencement of operations, stating that this achievement could pave the way for similar regulatory approvals in other countries where the company seeks to operate. This global perspective underscores the potential for international expansion and the broader impact of drone technology on various industries worldwide.
The ZenaDrone 1000, the company's flagship product, is designed for stable flight, maneuverability, and heavy lift capabilities. It incorporates innovative software technology, AI, sensors, and purpose-built attachments, making it suitable for industrial use. The drone has already been utilized in the agriculture sector for smart farming, plant tracking, and crop management. Additionally, it has been piloted with the US military for delivering temperature-controlled critical medical supplies, demonstrating its versatility and potential for diverse applications.
As ZenaTech begins its commercial operations in the US, the company is also looking ahead to future developments. Plans are in place to begin testing for beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) use at an overseas location in the coming months. This next step could further expand the capabilities and applications of ZenaDrone's technology, potentially revolutionizing long-distance drone operations.
The launch of commercial drone services by ZenaTech represents a significant milestone in the integration of drone technology into various industries. As regulations evolve and technology advances, the potential for drones to transform business operations, improve safety, and increase efficiency continues to grow. ZenaTech's entry into the US market with FAA approval marks an important step forward in this ongoing technological revolution, with implications that extend far beyond the immediate applications of its drone services.
