The US Post Office has provided more details about the Request For Information (RFI) first issued in September for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operators and developers to explore the use drones as delivery vehicles for mail as an integrated part of its vehicle delivery fleet, as well as to provide image and other data collection services. The amended RFI responds to questions about the eligibility of individual submissions and teams to apply; package size, weight and payloads; the level of autonomy; anticipated approval procedures with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); delivery range; and related support services.
The additional information states the Post Office accepts individual and joint submissions. It anticipates an industry day depending upon the number of responses, and expects the Post Office to carry out a review of key technologies. Initial efforts will focus on a Part 107 certified system which limits the UAS gross weight to 55lbs, while further evaluation may lead to larger package sizes. The Post Office is interested in beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), and may include multiple UAS designs to fulfil all postal missions. The Post Office is also looking for respondents to address as many requirements as possible including UAS planning, CONOPS, regulations, compliance and training.
Original posted date: 23 September 2019
Solicitation number: RFI-USPS-UAS
Response date: 4 November 2019
Primary point of contact: maryellen.mcgowan@usps.gov
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