Use of General Aviation Aircraft as Surrogate for UAS Development, Test, and Integration.

There are over 155 unmanned aircraft system designs by 50 institutions in the United States alone. Many manufacturers are small companies lacking sophisticated test facilities. Few have ready access to high-demand restricted area ranges. They must rely upon testing in the National Airspace System, which requires Federal Aviation Administration approval, often with lengthy approval times and significant operational limitations. Using manned general aviation aircraft as surrogate platforms for testing the sensor systems or the air vehicle is a viable option. General aviation aircraft overcome limitations of operating in the National Airspace System and provide an airborne integration laboratory and added flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]