Standardization News

Praxis Aerospace Concepts International (PACI) stands as an example of innovation and standardization in the rapidly evolving field of unmanned and manned aircraft systems (UAS and MAS). With special status as a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB), PACI holds a unique position that enhances its prospects in operations and contract bidding.

Guided by CEO Jonathan Daniels, who is an ASTM Fellow, the company is active in the committee on unmanned aircraft systems (F38). PACI’s engagement extends to being a member or participant in multiple Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aviation Rulemaking Committees, focusing on areas such as beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS), UAS in controlled airspace, UAS registration, and remote identification. Further contributing to standardization efforts, PACI has also made significant contributions to the American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI’s) “UAS Standardization Roadmap.”

With a history dating back to 2013 in flight testing and operations, PACI has shown particular capabilities in the realm of droneports and UAS test sites. Regionally, the company operated a public-use airport in Southern Nevada from 2015 to 2022, providing a droneport, vertiport, and UTM test area to numerous customers. The company has also offered assistance to droneports and vertiports looking to increase operations and ensure compliance with industry standards, notably the standard specification for vertiport design (F3423).

PACI is not just a service provider but also a contributor to the industry knowledge base. The company engages in various platforms like the drone safety team, FAA safety team, and AC377. Their CEO is a frequent panelist and moderator in significant industry events such as HeliExpo, VFS Infrastructure Symposiums, ICAO’s Drone Enable, AUVSI’s Xponential, and Commercial UAV Expo. PACI also issues or facilitates various types of certifications in partnership with governing bodies like the FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

Adding to this already extensive range of services and expertise is PACI’s diverse clientele. Clients range from drone and eVTOL manufacturers like American Robotics, ElroyAir, and Talyn Air, to operators like Textron Services and Verizon/Skyward. The list also includes academic institutions such as the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, government agencies like the U.S. Department of Energy, and many private sector firms.

By engaging with a wide array of stakeholders, from private companies to governmental agencies, PACI demonstrates its versatility and prowess in the ever-evolving landscape of aviation technology and regulations. The caliber and diversity of PACI’s clientele and contributions further cement its position as an industry leader committed to excellence, safety, and innovation. ■

Company Snapshot

Headquarters: Praxis Aerospace Concepts International, Searchlight, Nevada

Description: Praxis Aerospace is a service-disabled veteran-owned small business based in Southern Nevada. Using a mix of proprietary technology, unique team domain expertise, and unique partnerships, Praxis develops practical solutions for multi-modal (ground-air-sea-industrial) response robotics and unmanned systems (UxS) that benefit from experience and “best practices.” Praxis Aerospace can develop and operate laboratory and field facilities for autonomous systems research, development, test, evaluation, deployment, commercialization, and training.

Number of Employees: 11-51