Spaceport America, the world’s first purpose-built commercial spaceport, announced today the launch of the first Spaceport America Drone Summit to be held at Spaceport America in Southern New Mexico from March 12-14, 2016.
“We are thrilled to host this exciting and educational summit for small drones at Spaceport America,” said Spaceport America CEO Christine Anderson. “Our 12,000-foot spaceway and north campus are perfect for this type of multifaceted event and can easily accommodate thousands of participants.”
Over 1,000 attendees are expected for the three-day conference and small drone racing event designed to help drone pilots measure their skills in a quantitative way. Small drones are classified by the FAA as those weighing a maximum of 55 pounds flying at a maximum altitude of 400 feet. Bringing together drone pilots and enthusiasts, film and other industry professionals and spectators from around the world, the Spaceport America Drone Summit offers an action-packed agenda featuring:
- Three drone race categories and race tracks; obstacle, cinematography and freestyle
- Speakers from both the film and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) industries
- Demos and workshops teaching practical skills
- Drone industry vendors from across the USA
- Screenings of leading-edge footage and movies shot with drones
“Our race program has been designed to test pilots abilities based on speed, safety, and navigation around obstacles,” said Chief Pilot DroneU™ Paul Aitken. “As well, a panel of experts will be judging aerial footage shot and edited on the spot.”
“Small drone use in filmmaking allows directors to shoot scenes that were previously impossible,” emphasized Jon Hendry, Member of the Board, New Mexico Filmmakers Give Back. “The Spaceport America Drone Summit will demonstrate how drone use is changing the way movies are made and premiere stunning aerial cinematography.”
Speaker and workshop content about the use of small drones with video capability is targeted to an audience of professionals, hobbyists and amateur drone pilots in the fields of engineering, construction, development, ranching and farming, cinematography, weddings, government, oil and gas and real estate, among others.
Conference registration sales began today at www.spaceportdronesummit.com. For information regarding sponsorship and vendor opportunities please contact info@spaceportdronesummit.com
Release courtesy of Spaceport America, November 18, 2015
