Hogan Lovells acted for Percepto to protect FAA waiver drone infrastructure positioning
Hogan Lovells acted for Percepto to protect FAA waiver drone infrastructure positioning
Hogan Lovells, a multinational law firm, advised Percepto, a developer of autonomous drone technology, on how to get an FAA clearance allowing for BVLOS operations across the United States.
In regards of improved safety, effectiveness, and ease of operation, the FAA gave Percepto permission to operate at eligible sites across the nation remotely in a broad approval.
By detecting infrastructure issues, Percepto's "drone-in-a-box" technology is utilised by electric utilities, oil and gas companies, solar power plants, and mining operations. It enables quicker response times and ensures corrective action where it is most required. With the help of Percepto's waiver, automated drone inspection and monitoring can now be expanded without the drawn-out delay associated with site-specific BVLOS permits.
"Getting approval from the FAA to perform BVLOS operations across the country is a huge accomplishment for Percepto. We are delighted to have assisted our client put this over the finish line," said Lisa Ellman, a partner at Hogan Lovells and the firm's leader in Uncrewed Aviation Systems. "This is a huge win for the industry as a whole, and we can only hope it's a precursor to further FAA support for cutting-edge AI research and development by operators of essential national infrastructure."
Ellman was not Percepto's only adviser; senior associate Matthew Clark and Washington, D.C. based counsel – Patrick Rizzi also provided advice. The team at Hogan Lovells also consisted of Arjun Garg, Emily Kimball, and Allisa Newman.
