What Students Learn

Students learn the fundamentals of drone delivery systems, including how companies use drones to transport lightweight goods and how pilots maintain safety when flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). They discuss the roles of the Remote Pilot in Command, navigator, and visual observer, and examine how communication, airspace rules, and emerging technologies support safe BVLOS operations. Through a case study, they see how the Engineering Design Process helps teams coordinate multiple drones in the same airspace.

What Students Do

Students work in teams to fly Hopper from a designated takeoff pad to a delivery tower placed somewhere in a 20' × 20' grid. One student pilots, another navigates using Hopper’s camera feed, and the remaining teammates act as visual observers. Teams must communicate clearly, follow shared flying rules, avoid collisions with other drones, and return Hopper safely to the starting pad. The activity simulates real BVLOS delivery challenges, requiring teamwork, spatial awareness, and precise flight control.