Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announces the Autonomous Pod Transport’s (APT) successful demonstration of a ground-based detect-and-avoid (DAA) flight, fulfilling an extension for its NASA Systems Integration and Operationalization (SIO) project. The APT DAA demonstration showcased the aircraft’s ground radar system integration and its capabilities when navigating airspace traffic and requirements, a critical component needed for future advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles.

Appareo announces the certification of AIRS-400, its 4K Ultra high-definition Airborne Image Recording System. AIRS-400 has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Airbus AS350, Bell 206, and Bell 407.

GPMS announces that Ronnie Ries has joined the company as its vice president of Marketing. In this position, Ries will help develop and promote the Foresight MX HUMS solution to operators of helicopters from Bell, Airbus, Russian Helicopter, and MD Helicopters.

Enstrom Helicopter Corporation regrets to announce that after 64 years of near continuous operation, the company will be closing its doors on Jan. 21, 2022. Due to several financial difficulties, Enstrom’s owners have directed the company to declare Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) confirms its first International Standard for Business Aircraft Operators (IS-BAO) remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) registration was achieved this month by Phoenix Air Unmanned.

Helicopter Association International (HAI) announces United States Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander Travis Christy, an MH-60 aircraft commander, as the recipient of the Salute to Excellence Pilot of the Year Award. The award, presented by ROTOR Media, recognizes an outstanding single feat performed by a helicopter pilot during the year or extraordinary professionalism over a period of time.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awards $5 million in grants to develop a diverse talent pool of aviation maintenance technicians. The Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grants were awarded to organizations that will teach technical skills and prepare participants to pursue aviation maintenance careers.

Helicopter Association International (HAI) announces that Michigan State Police Aviation Unit Sgt. Matt Rogers is the recipient of the Salute to Excellence Law Enforcement Award. This award, sponsored by MD Helicopters, recognizes an individual who has contributed to the promotion and advancement of helicopters in support of law enforcement activities.

The nation’s helicopter fleet, including airborne law enforcement and air-ambulance services, faces the imminent likelihood of being grounded next week when Verizon Communications and AT&T plan to activate new 5G communication towers across the United States.