Latest Drone Developments: Insights from Commercial UAV Expo 2025, Drone Footage of First Ski Descent of Epic Trango Towers, and Additional Highlights!

In the bustling tech scene, the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas has been a hotbed of innovation and discussion. The event, which is currently underway, has seen various companies showcasing their latest drone technologies and applications.

One of the major topics of discussion has been the FAA's draft Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) rule, with the deadline for public comments set for October 6. The rule, which could revolutionize drone operations, has been a topic of interest for many industry players, including Wingtra, Orkid, and DJI.

Wingtra, a Swiss drone manufacturer, is using its VTOL drones to map wetlands across multiple sites in Vermont and New York. The detailed 3D maps generated are aiding researchers in identifying invasive aquatic plants. The consistent, repeat surveys using Wingtra's drones are also helping train AI models for efficient future monitoring and conservation efforts.

Orkid's 260VTOL drone, a professional platform for delivery, security, surveillance, and precision surveying, integrates Starlink satellite connectivity for real-time telemetry and video streaming during long-range missions. This feature allows for seamless communication and data transfer, making it an ideal tool for remote or infrastructure-poor areas.

Orkid's drone isn't the only one leveraging Starlink. The Starlink integration in Orkid's 260VTOL drone enables extended BVLOS operations, a testament to the potential of SpaceX's satellite internet service in the drone industry.

Meanwhile, DJI's Inspire 3 drone was put to use in capturing the first-ever ski descent of the Great Trango Tower. The film, featuring full-frame 8K visuals, offers a breathtaking view of the descent. The drone's rock-solid stabilization ensured that the footage was as smooth as the descent itself.

Away from the slopes, the drone industry is looking towards AI and Autonomy as the next big things. Companies like AIBOT have unveiled new eVTOL drones, such as the Tilt-Wing, at the Commercial UAV Expo. The Antigravity A1 drone, while not explicitly named, is another example of this trend. It boasts a native, integrated 360-degree camera system and a payload detection system designed to prevent misuse of drones carrying dangerous payloads.

The payload detection system in the Antigravity A1 drone is a safety measure aimed at preventing the misuse of drones. In the war in Ukraine, there have been reports of DJI drones being retrofitted to carry bombs and grenades, highlighting the need for such safety features.

As the drone industry continues to evolve, it's clear that innovation and safety will go hand in hand. The Commercial UAV Expo has provided a platform for companies to showcase their latest technologies, and it's exciting to see what the future holds for this rapidly growing industry.