Hangar X Studios

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Bobby Sakaki—Founder & CEO of UAS Nexus and one of the most deeply embedded operators in the drone ecosystem. This conversation goes far beyond drones. It dives into the real bottlenecks shaping the future of aerospace innovation: fragile supply chains, overreliance on foreign manufacturing, lack of software maturity, and the capital intensity of building next-generation systems. Bobby breaks down why drone dominance won’t be won in the air—but in manufacturing, infrastructure, and collaboration. He offers an unfiltered look at the challenges facing Western drone companies, the unintended consequences of regulation, and why mission-driven engineers—not profit-driven ones—are shaping the future. Episode Highlights Why supply chain dependency on China is the biggest challenge in the drone industry The concept of “commoditized drones”—and why the drone itself no longer matters How software (not hardware) is the biggest blind spot for most drone companies The rise of industry consolidation and M&A driven by capital constraints Why vertical integration works (and when it doesn’t) The importance of interoperability vs vendor lock-in The role of mentorship, humility, and mission-driven work in building impactful companies Key Points with Timestamps [00:03:05] The Core Industry Problem Reliance on Chinese supply chains and the urgent need for domestic resilience. [00:04:34] Why Fixing Supply Chains Is Hard Drone supply chains depend on adjacent industries like EVs and consumer electronics. [00:05:54] Practical Challenges for Builders Today Limited component suppliers and inability to scale production to meet demand. [00:06:30] UAS Nexus Approach Creating a supplier-agnostic ecosystem to avoid vendor lock-in. [00:07:42] The “DJI Effect” Market dominance, pricing pressure, and lack of comparable Western alternatives. [00:10:05] Regulatory Constraints How FCC and NDAA restrictions may unintentionally slow U.S. innovation. [00:12:58] Data Security Concerns Real risks vs perceived risks in foreign drone technology. [00:15:56] Why UAS Nexus Was Founded Solving shared industry problems through collaboration. [00:20:11] Where Drone Companies Get It Wrong Severe underinvestment in software talent and capabilities. [00:21:01] Skydio Case Study Vertical integration, heavy software investment, and lessons learned. [00:26:34] Innovation vs Capital Reality Why building cutting-edge drone tech is extremely expensive. [00:27:35] Industry Consolidation Coming M&A driven by IP, contracts, and talent—not just revenue. [00:29:04] “Nobody Cares About the Drone” Drones are tools—what matters is payload, mission, and outcomes. [00:30:32] Commoditization of Hardware Shift toward standardized components and system integration. [00:32:29] First-Mover Advantage in Components Core technologies (not platforms) create defensible advantages. [00:33:49] Advice for Builders Passion and mission matter more than money. [00:35:22] Collaboration Over Competition Why burning bridges is one of the biggest mistakes in the industry. [00:36:20] Power of Mentorship Cold outreach and learning from experts can change career trajectories. [00:40:00+] Future of the Industry We are still in the early “Windows 95 era” of drones—massive innovation ahead. Guest Bio: Bobby Sakaki Bobby Sakaki is the Founder and CEO of UAS Nexus, a curated marketplace and syndicate focused on NDAA-compliant drone systems and components. He is a seasoned drone industry expert with experience advising Fortune 500 companies, federal agencies, and startups on technology strategy, supply chains, and system integration. Previously, Bobby held leadership roles in product and business development at companies like Ascent AeroSystems, Autel Robotics, and WhiteFox. His work spans the full UAS ecosystem—from hardware and components to operational deployment. About UAS Nexus UAS Nexus is a specialized aerospace and drone technology company that provides OEM-level integrations, custom software, and curated access to drone components and systems. Built as a network of experienced engineers and industry experts, the company helps organizations simplify the complexity of unmanned systems by delivering seamless integration across sensors, autopilots, communication systems, and payloads. Notable Quotes “Drone dominance isn’t going to start with aircraft—it’s going to start with rebuilding our industrial base.” “Nobody gives a damn about the drone. They care about what it does.” “The most impactful engineers are not motivated by money—they’re motivated by mission.” “You don’t have to be a drone nerd. You just have to care.” “We’re all building with the same Lego blocks—the difference is how you assemble them.”

In this forward-looking episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Cornell PhD candidate and autonomy researcher Mehrnaz Sabet to explore one of the most critical challenges in aerospace today: scaling drone operations safely and efficiently. Rather than framing autonomy as a replacement for humans, Mehrnaz introduces a powerful paradigm—collaborative autonomy—where humans and intelligent systems learn from each other to unlock entirely new operational capabilities. From search and rescue missions to dense urban drone delivery, this conversation dives deep into the infrastructure, AI, and coordination systems needed to support millions of drones in the sky. The discussion also uncovers groundbreaking work from Project Orion (NASA-funded), real-time simulation environments that blur the line between physical and virtual testing, and the urgent need for next-generation traffic management systems. If you're building, operating, or investing in the future of autonomous aviation—this episode is essential listening Episode Highlights The shift from “human-out-of-the-loop” to collaborative autonomy How drones learn from human experts in high-stakes environments like search & rescue Inside Project Orion and NASA-backed traffic management innovation The hidden infrastructure problem blocking drone scalability Real-time simulation: testing thousands of drones without leaving the ground The role of synthetic data in training autonomous systems Why interoperability and communication standards are the next big hurdle How academia is shaping the future of airspace—years ahead of industry Key Points with Timestamps [00:00:00] – The origin of a new idea: applying drone coordination learnings to broader air traffic management challenges [00:01:23] – Framing the big question: Can autonomy truly scale in aerospace? [00:04:38] – Introducing collaborative autonomy: humans and machines working together [00:06:27] – One-to-many operations: how a single operator can manage multiple drones [00:07:29] – Teaching drones from human behavior in complex missions like search & rescue [00:10:09] – The birth of Project Orion and NASA’s involvement [00:10:44] – Realization: coordination challenges exist across all airspace, not just public safety [00:12:57] – Building next-gen traffic management infrastructure [00:14:19] – The testing problem: why current drone test environments fall short [00:15:39] – Simulating high-density operations (e.g., 200 drones/km²) [00:18:24] – Real-time simulation + physical testing = breakthrough validation approach [00:22:25] – What is synthetic data and why it matters [00:24:07] – Key challenges: vision-based navigation and dynamic occlusion [00:25:54] – Cooperative perception: drones sharing information in real-time [00:26:28] – The need for interoperability and communication standards [00:28:42] – Academia’s role: thinking 5–10 years ahead of industry [00:32:27] – Two priorities for scaling: infrastructure and safety Guest Bio: Mehrnaz Sabet Mehrnaz Sabet is a PhD candidate at Cornell University, specializing in collaborative autonomy and multi-agent machine learning for drones. Her research focuses on enabling autonomous systems to operate effectively alongside humans in complex, real-world environments. She is a key contributor to Project Orion, a NASA-funded initiative aimed at developing next-generation air traffic management systems for scalable drone operations. Her work spans AI-driven autonomy, real-time simulation environments, and infrastructure design for high-density aerospace systems. Notable Quotes “You cannot have a system completely out of the loop from humans. Autonomy has to be collaborative.” “The technology is already there. What we lack is the infrastructure to scale it safely.” “If one drone cannot see an obstacle, it should still know about it—from other drones.” “We shouldn’t just build for the next five years—we should build infrastructure that scales for the future.” “Test infrastructure is underestimated—but it’s critical for safety and public trust.”

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Christopher Hewlett—retired Navy Commander and Director of Project ULTRA—to explore how the Department of Defense is accelerating the real-world integration of drones into the national airspace. This isn’t theoretical. Project ULTRA is moving beyond simulations into repeatable, operational BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) missions—flying real cargo, solving real airspace challenges, and building the data infrastructure needed for scalable drone operations. Chris shares how the military is taking a fundamentally different approach than industry—prioritizing safety cases over business cases—and why that mindset may be the key to unlocking large-scale drone adoption. From airspace interoperability and traffic management to humanitarian missions and future logistics networks, this conversation reveals what it will actually take to integrate thousands of drones safely into shared skies. If you want to understand where drone operations are really headed—and what’s holding them back—this episode is essential listening. Episode Highlights How Project ULTRA transitioned from simulation to real-world drone operations Why the Department of Defense is leading UAS integration—not commercial players The critical role of data, interoperability, and airspace management systems Real BVLOS missions: 60 nautical miles, live payload delivery, repeatable operations The shift from “business case” to “safety case” as the driver of adoption Why current “detect and avoid” models may not scale The future of drone logistics, disaster response, and military operations The hidden bottleneck: command & control (C2) standardization What needs to happen for drones to scale nationally and globally Key Points with Timestamps [00:00:00] – The Challenge of Secure Airspace Integration How drones must operate safely within complex environments like Washington, D.C., requiring secure, interoperable data systems. [00:01:26] – What This Episode Covers Overview of UAS integration, BVLOS missions, Project ULTRA, and the importance of data infrastructure. [00:04:58] – From Simulation to Real Operations Project ULTRA’s core concept: applying operational test and evaluation to real-world drone missions. [00:08:00] – First Real BVLOS Missions Successful 60-nautical-mile flights delivering payloads and returning—repeated multiple times. [00:10:13] – Military vs Commercial Mindset The DoD prioritizes interoperability and safety, while industry often pushes for faster approvals. [00:12:47] – The Real Bottleneck The issue isn’t just regulation—it’s a lack of shared understanding of how integration should work. [00:15:58] – Operational Challenges Navigating regulatory barriers like FCC approvals and redefining weather minimums for unmanned aircraft. [00:19:06] – Rethinking Flight Rules for Drones Why traditional VFR/IFR frameworks don’t fully apply to unmanned systems. [00:23:25] – The Importance of Data Infrastructure Airspace integration depends on real-time data sharing across agencies and systems. [00:26:40] – Interoperability & “Electronic Conspicuity” Future systems may require all aircraft to broadcast their position via networked solutions. [00:31:36] – Military Use Cases ISR, logistics, medevac, and humanitarian disaster response as primary drone applications. [00:32:40] – Drones at Scale The vision: thousands of drones delivering supplies autonomously in crisis scenarios. [00:35:14] – The C2 Problem A lack of standardized command-and-control systems could limit scalability. [00:39:23] – Scaling Nationally Building repeatable corridors and expanding operations across states and even internationally. [00:44:41] – Final Takeaway: Safety First True adoption comes from operational proof, not one-off demos—safety enables policy. Guest Bio: Christopher Hewlett Christopher Hewlett is the Director of Project ULTRA (Unmanned Logistics Traffic Response and Autonomy), a Department of Defense-backed initiative focused on scaling drone operations within the national airspace system. A retired U.S. Navy Commander with nearly 30 years of aviation experience and over 2,700 flight hours in H-60 helicopters, Chris has held leadership roles across operational, strategic, and joint environments. At Grand Sky in North Dakota, he leads one of the most advanced real-world drone testing ecosystems in the U.S., working alongside the FAA, DoD, and industry partners to enable safe, scalable integration of unmanned aircraft. Notable Quotes “We’re leading the charge with safety cases, not business cases.” “A demonstrator event does not prove safety—we’re an operational test environment.” “This is not a community-based traffic problem—it’s an airspace integration problem.” “If we remove the haystack, all that’s left are the needles.” “We’re not cowboying—we’re methodically demonstrating capability, then scalability.”

The drone industry is at a pivotal moment — and misinformation is flying just as fast as the aircraft themselves. In this episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Sally French (aka “The Drone Girl”), one of the most trusted voices in drone journalism, to cut through the noise surrounding the FCC’s recent ruling on foreign-made drones. Are DJI drones banned? Will commercial operators be grounded? Is the U.S. about to fall behind globally? They also explore: The massive implications of upcoming Part 108 BVLOS regulations How drone swarms are reshaping everything from warfare to wedding entertainment The real growth opportunity in “Drones as a Service” If you’re an operator, investor, policymaker, or simply trying to understand where aerospace innovation is headed — this episode delivers clarity in a rapidly evolving space. Buckle up. Episode Highlights The FCC ruling explained in plain English — no panic required Why existing DJI drones can still be sold and used How future drone imports could reshape U.S. competitiveness The coming BVLOS breakthrough that could unlock true drone delivery scale Why drones-as-a-service may be the most investable segment in the industry The economic ripple effects of restricting foreign drone hardware The human side of drone innovation — and why storytelling matters Key Points with Timestamps [00:00:00] — The FCC Ruling: What’s Actually Banned? Sally clarifies that only future drones without FCC approval made outside the U.S. are restricted. Existing approved models can still be manufactured, restocked, and sold. [00:02:12] — From Bezos’ Vision to Today’s Reality A look back at the 2013 drone delivery hype and how the industry has evolved far beyond consumer photography. [00:05:48] — Drones in Warfare & Swarm Technology How drone swarms are reshaping military strategy — and why this represents a fundamental shift in aerospace defense. [00:10:29] — The Regulatory Bottleneck: Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) Why current rules limit scalability and how waivers have slowed industry growth. [00:12:41] — Part 108 & BVLOS: The Real Game Changer Why beyond visual line of sight regulations could unlock delivery, inspections, agriculture, and offshore operations at scale. [00:14:24] — Misinformation vs. Reality in Media Coverage How headlines misrepresented the FCC action as a full DJI ban — and why nuance matters. [00:17:59] — Economic Impact on Commercial & Government Users Police departments, farmers, and taxpayers may face higher costs if foreign competition disappears. [00:20:31] — Are U.S. Drone Companies 5–10 Years Behind? Discussion on manufacturing gaps, hardware limitations, and the opportunity for domestic growth. [00:23:05] — The Most Reliable Revenue Model: Drones as a Service Why service-based drone businesses (not hardware) may offer the greatest upside. [00:25:14] — Data is the Real Value Flying drones is easy. Extracting actionable insights from thermal, NDVI, and photogrammetry data is the true differentiator. [00:29:47] — The Danger of Oversimplified Headlines How TikTok-length attention spans distort complex regulatory issues. Guest Bio: Sally French (“The Drone Girl”) Sally French is the founder and lead writer of TheDroneGirl.com, one of the earliest and most respected media platforms covering drone news, reviews, tutorials, and industry insights. She launched the site in 2013 at the dawn of the consumer drone revolution and has since become a nationally recognized voice in the space. Sally has been quoted in: The New York Times The Wall Street Journal CNN Consumer Reports Aviation Week Beyond journalism, she is a sought-after speaker who has presented at South by Southwest, Harvard Business School, and numerous aerospace and robotics conferences. About The Drone Girl The Drone Girl is a leading drone-focused media platform founded by Sally French, dedicated to providing clear, trustworthy news, reviews, tips, and stories about the evolving world of drones. Launched in 2013, the site demystifies drone technology for hobbyists and professionals alike while spotlighting real-world use cases across commercial, entertainment, and regulatory landscapes. It also champions greater diversity in the drone industry and has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to understand drones — from beginner pilots to industry insiders. Notable Quotes “Future drones that do not have FCC approval — those are the ones restricted. Existing approved drones can continue to be sold.” “If drone delivery is only as far as I can see, I could just walk it.” “The reliable source of revenue in the drone industry is drones as a service.” “Any 14-year-old can fly a drone. The value is in knowing what to do with the data.” “The more we can enable rather than block, that’s going to be key.” “People don’t want tech specs — they want to know: So what?”

Aviation is entering one of the most disruptive economic shifts in its history — and investor Dean Donovan is right at the center of it. In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes back one of aerospace’s sharpest market minds to unpack where capital is flowing, what technologies are real versus hype, and why the future of aviation will be shaped by defense-driven innovation, hybrid propulsion, drone-enabled services, and radically new aircraft designs like blended wing bodies. Dean shares why all-electric enthusiasm is cooling, why hybrid systems are emerging as the dominant path forward, and how AI and autonomy will reshape everything from aircraft power demands to the way consumers discover travel experiences. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone tracking aerospace investment, advanced air mobility, drones, defense tech, and the next decade of aviation transformation. 🚀 Episode Highlights Defense investing is reshaping the aerospace funding landscape Dual-use drone technologies are attracting massive capital inflows Hybrid propulsion is overtaking fully electric aviation strategies Drone-as-a-service models are maturing into real revenue businesses Contract manufacturing may redefine how aerospace startups scale AI-powered travel planning could disrupt airline distribution channels ⏱️ Key Points & Timestamps Defense is driving the biggest shift in aerospace investing [00:04:27] Dean explains how drones in Ukraine and geopolitical pressure on Europe are accelerating defense rearmament and funding. Capital is flowing heavily into dual-use technologies [00:06:54] Investors are prioritizing technologies that can succeed in both defense and commercial markets. All-electric propulsion hype is cooling — hybrid is winning [00:08:43] Dean notes the industry’s pivot away from pure electric toward hybrid propulsion as the pragmatic solution. Aircraft of the future will require enormous onboard power [00:10:36] Electrification isn’t just for propulsion — it’s about powering sensors, AI compute, lasers, and autonomy. AI-enabled design breakthroughs are coming fast [00:14:23] John highlights AI-driven simulation advances reducing noise and improving thrust in propeller innovation. Airspace management is an under-discussed bottleneck [00:15:51] Uncrewed traffic management will be essential before drones scale to millions of daily flights. Drone businesses are moving from hardware to full solution stacks [00:16:49] Dean discusses companies like Percepto and Wingtra evolving into integrated service platforms. Unexpected growth: drones transforming building maintenance [00:19:18] Window-washing drones are restructuring an entire service industry — even attracting private equity rollups. Manufacturing may separate from aircraft design [00:20:44] Dean points to contract manufacturing deals (like Elroy + Kratos) as a sign of industry evolution. DJI bans are creating huge demand for compliant drone manufacturing [00:23:03] The U.S. crackdown on DJI is opening major market opportunities for new players. 👤 Guest Bio — Dean Donovan Dean Donovan is the CEO of DiamondStream Partners and one of the most influential investors shaping the future of aviation and aerospace. He founded Volaris, which became Mexico’s largest airline, and previously led Bain & Company’s global aviation practice. Dean has invested across hybrid-electric propulsion, drones, blended wing body airliners, autonomous cargo, fleet optimization, and next-generation aerospace platforms. His work sits at the intersection of capital deployment, innovation strategy, and the future economics of flight. About DiamondStream Partners DiamondStream Partners is a Seattle-based venture capital and growth investment firm focused on advancing the future of aviation, aerospace, and related mobility technologies. They look for mid-stage companies — especially those developing aerial mobility, drone systems, aerospace hardware, software platforms, and transportation technologies — that can transform traditional transportation economics and accelerate new use cases. The firm leverages deep industry expertise to help founders scale technologies that offer lower-cost alternatives to existing solutions while stimulating broader market growth. Their portfolio includes companies like Elroy Air, Wingtra, SwissDrones, and others pioneering autonomous aircraft, advanced propulsion, and aerial solutions. 💬 Notable Quotes “The enthusiasm for all-electric propulsion has really cooled off… hybrid is emerging as the dominant technology.” [00:08:43] “Defense is a really nice way to mature and develop a technology.” [00:06:54] “Electrification of everything in the air makes a ton of sense.” [00:10:36] “We’re starting to separate aircraft design from manufacturing.” [00:20:44] “JetZero will have the most profound impact on aviation over the next decade.” [00:34:31]

What if flying a small airplane or helicopter felt as safe—and as simple—as riding an elevator? In this episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Mark Groden of Skyryse to unpack the company’s mission: redesigning how aircraft are flown through integrated hardware and software. Mark shares the personal tragedy that sparked his focus on aviation safety, then explains how Skyryse’s operating system (SkyOS) and flight assistant (Skyler) reduce pilot workload, eliminate common accident causes like loss of control, and bring airline-grade automation to aircraft that historically haven’t benefited from it. From autorotation support in helicopters to one-touch ATC compliance, the conversation argues that aviation’s future lies in safer control of aircraft already flying. Episode highlights Why aviation safety hasn’t meaningfully advanced in decades—and why it must (00:02:32) “Elevator-level safety” as the benchmark for the future of flight (00:05:02) The autorotation problem: why it’s so hard, and how SkyOS keeps pilot agency intact (00:15:54) What SkyOS is: the hardware + software stack replacing traditional controls (00:20:27) Deterministic vs non-deterministic AI—and where AI should (and shouldn’t) fly the aircraft (00:24:41) Skyler, the flight assistant that helps ensure you never miss an ATC call (00:27:04) Certification strategy: why retrofitting via STCs accelerates adoption (00:28:41) “91 days” from first part removed to automated Blackhawk flight—and what that signals (00:31:59) Where Skyryse sees adoption first: EMS, firefighting, military, then private aviation (00:35:07) Key points with timestamps The mission: integrated hardware + software to redefine safe flight (00:00:00) Mark’s “why”: a fatal low-altitude stall that made safety personal (00:02:32) The gap: airline-grade automation hasn’t reached most aviation (00:02:32) Automation as the key to unlocking advanced air mobility (00:02:32) The “elevator” analogy: setting a high bar for per-trip safety (00:05:02) Why parachutes don’t solve perception or control like automation (00:05:02) The problem with today’s automation: it disengages when things get hard (00:05:02) Helicopters as extreme cognitive + physical workload machines (00:08:42) Cockpit complexity has increased—even in “advanced” GA aircraft (00:10:41) Why Skyryse had to “own everything” (except the engine) to remove degraded modes (00:10:41) Autorotation as the proving ground for integrated control (00:10:41) Pilot agency preserved: SkyOS supports real-time decisions in emergencies (00:15:54) Auto-autorotation initiation + simplified engine restart interaction (00:18:33) SkyOS explained: actuators, control computers, sensors, cockpit UI + 1.2M lines of code (00:20:27) Why deterministic AI matters for flight control (“no hallucinating”) (00:24:41) Skyler: ATC listening, tail-number detection, suggested readbacks, one-tap updates (00:27:04) Certification path: retrofit via STCs for faster scaling (00:28:41) Blackhawk milestone: 91 days from removal to automated takeoff (00:31:59) Autonomy outlook: piloted first, optional later—reliability is the gatekeeper (00:32:17) Near-term markets: EMS, Cal Fire, military; longer-term: owner-operators (00:35:07) A striking stat: only 1 in 7 people who start flight training finish (00:35:07) Legacy goal: drive safety statistics as close to zero as possible (00:38:35) Guest bio Mark Groden is the founder of Skyryse, a company building an integrated flight control platform to improve aviation safety and reduce pilot workload. He shares how learning to fly—and the loss of his instructor—shaped his mission to prevent preventable accident categories like loss of control and CFIT through automation. He leads development of SkyOS and Skyler, a flight assistant focused on situational awareness and communications. Notable quotes “We’re going to take a holistic approach… from a clean sheet, how should an airplane or helicopter be flown today… with the highest level of safety technology?” (00:00:00) “I think it’s a front that hasn’t been advanced meaningfully in decades—and is probably the most needed.” (00:02:32) “We say the elevator because the elevator is the safest place to be on a per trip basis.” (00:05:02) “It is the only machine we know of that is actively trying to kill you.” (00:10:41) “The pilot becomes the backup for a failed automation system.” (00:05:02) “We wanted the pilot to have access to the full flight envelope.” (00:15:54) “There’s no hallucinating in this AI… it’s provably correct.” (00:24:41) “One out of seven people graduates from flight school that starts.” (00:35:07) “We want to see the safety statistics be driven as close as possible to zero.” (00:38:35)

In this fast-paced lightning round, Jeremy Schneiderman, CEO and Founder of Drone Nerds, joins host John Ramstead to unpack some of the most critical shifts happening in the drone and UAS industry today. From the transformative power of BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations to the rapid evolution of drone-in-a-box systems, Jeremy shares practical insights on how automation, regulation, and domestic manufacturing are reshaping what’s possible with drones. Listeners also get a behind-the-scenes look at what has fueled Drone Nerds’ rise as a national leader—its people-first culture, deep vendor relationships, and mission to be the “easy button” for scalable drone programs. The conversation wraps with a lighter, personal touch, exploring team culture, leadership philosophy, and Jeremy’s lifelong love of baseball. This episode is a must-listen for drone professionals, enterprise operators, and anyone tracking the future of unmanned systems. 🚀 Episode Highlights Why BVLOS is the single biggest unlock for scaling drone operations How remote operations and automation are changing enterprise drone programs The three core strengths behind Drone Nerds’ national success What increased U.S. defense spending means for the UAV industry A look at breakthrough tech, including pressure and soft wash drones Why drone-in-a-box solutions are on the brink of widespread adoption Growing momentum and capability among U.S.-based drone manufacturers How Drone Nerds maintains a strong culture in a fully distributed team A personal conversation about leadership, family, and baseball fandom ⏱️ Key Points & Timestamps [00:00:09] Why BVLOS is one of the most important topics in UAS today [00:00:24] How BVLOS enables remote operations, automation, and multi-drone flights [00:00:44] The three strengths that have driven Drone Nerds’ success [00:02:06] The outlook on U.S. defense spending and its impact on UAV markets [00:02:54] A game-changing pressure and soft wash drone launch [00:03:25] What “drone in a box” really means and why adoption is accelerating [00:04:23] Why domestic drone manufacturers are gaining momentum [00:05:15] How Drone Nerds builds culture with a remote, distributed workforce [00:06:11] Jeremy’s lifelong connection to baseball and family traditions 👤 Guest Bio: Jeremy Schneiderman Jeremy Schneiderman is the CEO and Founder of Drone Nerds, one of the largest and most respected drone solution providers in the United States. Under his leadership, Drone Nerds has become a trusted authority across multiple industries by combining deep technical expertise, strong vendor partnerships, and a customer-first approach. Jeremy is passionate about building scalable drone programs, fostering strong organizational culture, and helping customers adopt emerging technologies with confidence. Outside of work, he’s a lifelong baseball fan, former player, and dedicated coach—bringing the same teamwork mindset from the field into his leadership style. About Drone Nerds Drone Nerds is a leading U.S.-based drone solutions provider helping organizations design, deploy, and scale successful drone programs. Known for its deep industry expertise, strong vendor partnerships, and customer-first approach, Drone Nerds supports a wide range of industries with best-in-class hardware, software, training, and support. With a mission to be the “easy button” for enterprise drone operations, Drone Nerds simplifies adoption while enabling customers to maximize the value of unmanned technology. 💬 Notable Quotes “Remote operations, taking a little bit of the human element out of flights, and allowing one person to fly multiple drones—that’s what BVLOS unlocks.” “Our goal as Drone Nerds is to be the easy button for our customers’ drone programs.” “Drone in a box is going to have a profound effect on how people use drones in the future—it’s just a matter of time.” “U.S. manufacturing is happening now, and the technology being delivered can truly compete.” “Work hard, play hard. Get the work done—but let’s have fun while we’re doing it.”

In this episode of the HangarX Podcast, host John Ramstead talks with Scott Drennan, President and COO of Otto Aviation, about the breakthrough thinking behind the Phantom 3500—a super-mid business jet built around laminar flow. Fresh off NBAA, Otto announced 300 firm Flexjet orders, signaling strong confidence in an aircraft promising lower fuel burn, coast-to-coast range, and a new cabin experience. Scott shares how Otto uses physics-first aerodynamics, advanced CFD, precision composite manufacturing, and “digital windows” to create a 19,000-lb aircraft performing like a 35,000–40,000-lb jet. The discussion covers drag-reduction benefits, certification strategy, high-altitude laminar resilience, and how removing windows can increase safety and comfort. If the Phantom 3500 meets its goals, it could reshape expectations for efficiency, economics, and aircraft design. Episode Highlights Flexjet places 300 firm Phantom 3500 orders, validating Otto’s design direction. Laminar flow as core innovation: major drag reduction and compounding fuel savings. A “big dumb wing” that isn’t draggy: high-aspect, low-loading wing becomes efficient as laminar flow minimizes drag. Windowless fuselage + Supernatural Vision: curved OLED “digital windows” offer panoramic views, safety gains, and simpler manufacturing. Digital-first enterprise: Otto builds digital twins for aircraft, factory, and lifecycle maintenance. Clear FAA path under Part 23: no “new and novel” hurdles, enabling faster certification. Key Points With Timestamps Laminar flow is the mission and multiplier—orderly airflow reduces viscous drag and boosts whole-aircraft efficiency. [00:04:07 – 00:06:13] Why drag reduction makes a lighter, cheaper jet—30% drag cut reduces thrust, engine size, fuel, structures, and cost (“virtuous cycle”). [00:05:10 – 00:07:18] Phantom 3500 targets — ~3,000–3,200 nm range, coast-to-coast capability, super-mid performance at Part 23 weight. [00:07:18 – 00:07:56] Wing efficiency — wing-only laminar flow can be 6–8x more efficient; whole-aircraft drag ~30% lower. [00:07:56 – 00:08:50] Clean-sheet drag obsession — relocating pitot tubes, embedding antennas. [00:09:02 – 00:10:29] What convinced Scott to join Otto — Celera demonstrator data showing sustained laminar flow, drag measurements, and fuel-burn validation. [00:10:47 – 00:12:55] Three enablers for laminar flow • Accurate prediction using NASA Overflow CFD + Otto algorithms • Precision composites/RTM manufacturing • Operational resilience via coatings and high-altitude cruise [00:13:18 – 00:19:29] Why Otto cruises at 51,000 ft — lower Reynolds number improves laminar resilience; turbulent wedges close up. [00:17:56 – 00:19:29] “Big dumb wing” advantage — low loading + clean actuation enables 3,500-ft field performance, quick climb to FL510, stable high-altitude handling. [00:19:38 – 00:21:24] Certification strategy — Part 23 basis set; FAA sees no new-and-novel risks. Otto uses COTS systems (Williams FJ44, ECS, fuel system). [00:21:40 – 00:25:03] High-AoA and landing — slotted two-piece wing with hinge flaps keeps flow attached up to 26° AoA for a benign stall. [00:25:03 – 00:26:50] Windowless cabin + Supernatural Vision — curved OLED panels offer immersive views, customization, structural benefits, lower weight, and manufacturing simplicity. [00:26:50 – 00:31:37] Digital twins — full-lifecycle modeling for predictive maintenance and higher availability. [00:31:37 – 00:35:48] 2035 vision — Phantom success enables ~66% resource savings, lower operating costs, broader access to business aviation, and a future larger laminar aircraft. [00:35:48 – 00:37:30] Guest Bio: Scott Drennan Scott Drennan is President and COO of Otto Aviation, leading development of the Phantom 3500 and Otto’s laminar-flow roadmap. A veteran aerospace engineer who previously led advanced programs at Bell, Scott blends aerodynamic rigor with entrepreneurial execution. He joined Otto after validating Celera demonstrator data and seeing the potential for certifiable, scalable laminar-flow aircraft. [Referenced: 00:02:00 – 00:12:55] https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-scott-drennan-95462782/ About Otto Aviation Otto Aviation (also Otto Aerospace) is a U.S. aircraft developer focused on sustained laminar-flow aerodynamics. Its flagship Phantom 3500 uses a streamlined, mostly windowless composite fuselage and precision manufacturing to preserve laminar flow. Otto claims ~60% lower fuel burn than comparable jets while maintaining coast-to-coast range and a larger-cabin experience. https://ottoaerospace.com/ Notable Quotes “Laminar flow is the orderly flow of a fluid… the difference between those two is drag.” [00:04:07 – 00:05:10] “A laminar flow aircraft can achieve 5x better drag than a turbulent flow aircraft.” [00:05:10 – 00:06:13] “We call that the virtuous cycle.” [00:06:13 – 00:07:18] “Design it in, build it in, keep it in.” [00:14:14 – 00:16:14]

Electrification is coming to aviation, but Ampaire’s CEO Kevin Noertker says the practical near-term path is hybrid-electric, not fully electric. In Hangar X, he explains how Ampaire shifted from bold sci-fi concepts to a certifiable retrofit strategy, proven in rugged deployments. Episode Highlights Big belief: Electrification will transform aviation like it did cars. Pivot to hybrid: Full-electric retrofits proved the tech, but hybrids were faster to certify and sell. Infrastructure bottleneck: Hawaii showed charging networks lag aircraft readiness. How it saves fuel: Cruise-optimized combustion + electric boost for takeoff/climb. Cert progress: FAA hybrid-engine certification + Eco Caravan STC path. Safety gain: Dual power sources add graceful-degradation resilience. Key Points with Timestamps Why electrification is inevitable — Ampaire’s founding insight. [00:00:00 – 00:03:34] Original “North Star” vision — fully electric VTOL supersonic jet → unpacked into steps. [00:06:15 – 00:07:31] Why hybrid beats full-electric (for now) — certify propulsion first, avoid aircraft redesign loops. [00:07:31 – 00:09:34] Retrofit lessons + Hawaii “aha” — planes ready before charging was. [00:07:31 – 00:13:32] Hybrid architecture (H570) — integrated parallel hybrid on one prop shaft. [00:18:10 – 00:21:37] Fuel savings mechanics — ~50% cruise, up to ~70% takeoff/climb. [00:21:37 – 00:25:31] Certification roadmap — engine cert + Caravan STC, aiming mid-2027. [00:25:31 – 00:27:47] Scaling plan — same stack for regional, cargo, GA, drones, defense. [00:27:47 – 00:30:28] Guest Bio Kevin Noertker is co-founder/CEO of Ampaire, developing hybrid-electric propulsion to cut emissions and costs in regional aviation. Ex-Northrop Grumman, NOAA satellite work, NASA JPL research; Caltech graduate. About Speedbird Ampaire Ampaire is a California aviation company building hybrid-electric propulsion and retrofit aircraft for existing turboprop fleets. Its flagship AMP-H570 “AmpDrive” combines a Jet-A piston engine with an electric motor/battery boost, flying on the Eco Caravan (hybrid Cessna Grand Caravan). The strategy targets near-term fuel and emissions cuts without depending on charging infrastructure. Notable Quotes “Electrification… is going to transform aviation.” “Designing a new airplane around immature propulsion guarantees redesign.” “Charging infrastructure will be slow to proliferate.” “Our launch product must be self-charging and infrastructure-independent.”

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Steve Zohabian, Chief Operating Officer at XTI Aerospace, to discuss how the company is reshaping the future of flight with the TriFan 600. From DARPA’s “Frankenstein” Learjet experiment to the next generation of vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, Steve shares how XTI is leveraging proven technology, agile processes, and a visionary team to unlock what he calls the “vertical skyway.” This conversation covers the technical, regulatory, and business challenges of advanced air mobility—and why XTI’s hybrid approach is poised to change aviation forever. Episode Highlights XTI Aerospace’s bold vision for the TriFan 600 and the “vertical skyway” The “cookbook” of people, tools, and processes to accelerate innovation DARPA’s Sprint program and the “Frankenstein Learjet” experiment Lessons learned from ducted fan technology and rapid prototyping Balancing certification, safety, and innovation in aviation The multi-mission versatility of the TriFan 600: passenger, cargo, and military use cases Why funding, trust, and credible execution will drive the next phase of aerospace transformation Key Points with Timestamps [00:00:00] – Steve Zohabian introduces the concept of opening a “new skyway” for vertical and conventional takeoff. [00:01:50] – John reviews Steve’s background: Piasecki Aircraft, Boeing, and ducted fan expertise. [00:03:27] – The “cookbook” for scaling aerospace innovation: people, tools, and processes. [00:04:36] – The DARPA “Sprint” program and how Piasecki created a demonstrator in record time. [00:05:31] – Transforming a Learjet into a vertical takeoff aircraft: the “Frankenstein” design. [00:06:31] – Importance of ingenuity, supply chain trust, and engineering agility. [00:07:14] – Lessons from ducted fan technology and breaking new ground. [00:08:14] – Comparing legacy aerospace with new innovators: leapfrogging technology. [00:09:05] – The roadmap: prototype, certification, and production. [00:10:03] – Balancing engineering design with FAA certification requirements. [00:10:56] – Safety first: early engagement with the FAA and proven supply chains. [00:12:11] – The “vertical skyway” vision and how it differs from eVTOL infrastructure limits. [00:13:14] – Market differentiation: TriFan can take off conventionally, on short runways, or vertically. [00:14:45] – Beyond high-net-worth users: cargo logistics, dual-use, and military applications. [00:15:43] – The biggest challenge ahead: funding and building investor confidence. [00:17:07] – The 90-day plan: review decisions, establish a baseline, and align with the FAA. [00:19:19] – Why Steve chose XTI: the perfect moment to harness decades of innovation. Guest Bio: Steve Zohabian Steve Zohabian is the Chief Operating Officer at XTI Aerospace, where he leads efforts to bring the groundbreaking TriFan 600 vertical takeoff and landing aircraft into production. Previously, Steve served as COO of Piasecki Aircraft, where he spearheaded the transformation into a next-generation VTOL company and led DARPA’s Sprint program. With deep engineering and leadership experience at Boeing on programs like the V-22 Osprey and Chinook, Steve is recognized as one of the leading experts in ducted fan technology. His career reflects a unique blend of technical innovation and executive leadership, positioning him to drive XTI’s mission of opening the vertical skyway. https://www.linkedin.com/in/zohrabian About XTI Aerospace XTI Aerospace is an aviation company dedicated to transforming air travel through its development of the TriFan 600, a revolutionary vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Combining the convenience of a helicopter with the speed and range of a business jet, the TriFan 600 is designed for point-to-point travel without the need for new infrastructure. XTI focuses on creating safe, efficient, and versatile aircraft that can serve multiple markets, from regional mobility and business travel to cargo and military applications. With a leadership team experienced in aerospace innovation and certification, the company is working to open what it calls a new “vertical skyway,” redefining how people and goods move across regions. Notable Quotes “We’re opening up really the opportunity for folks to land and take off wherever they want—ultimately bringing the holy grail of flight.” – Steve Zohabian [00:00:00] “People, tools, and processes—that’s the cookbook for transformation.” – Steve Zohabian [00:03:27] “We chopped off the wings, put ducted fans on, and turned a Learjet into a piece of art.” – Steve Zohabian [00:05:57] “Leapfrog technology, but take a credible approach when it comes to certification.” – Steve Zohabian [00:08:14]

Former Army helicopter pilot and FAA leader James “Jim” Viola, now President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), joins host John Ramstead to map where aerospace manufacturing and operations are headed next. From composites and 3D printing to data-driven certification, AI, and hybrid-electric propulsion, Jim explains how innovation can move faster while staying safe. He opens up on supply chain bottlenecks, why condition-based maintenance must replace calendar-based overhauls, what it will take to make AAM and eVTOL commercially viable, and why ATC modernization is the critical path to scale. If you care about building, certifying, or flying the future of aviation, this is your playbook. Episode Highlights How GAMA aligns manufacturers, regulators, and operators to get safe technology to market faster Advanced manufacturing in practice: composites, additive, digital threads, and real-time quality data AI’s role in predictive maintenance, automation, and the human-in-the-loop question Certification reality checks and how to keep programs moving with measurable milestones AAM and eVTOL operations: why IFR capability and procedures are essential to scale ATC modernization and the Modern Skies initiative as the backbone for the next decade Hybrid-electric propulsion, multi-path redundancy, and the path to safer operations Practical vision for rooftops, vertiports, and using existing community infrastructure Unleaded avgas transition timelines and what it means for the fleet Key Points with Timestamps 00:00:00 Safety by design: if cars auto brake, why can aircraft still collide 00:00:28 Show open, sponsor XTI Aerospace, and guest intro 00:03:35 GAMA’s mission: accelerate innovation and certification while protecting safety 00:06:11 The full manufacturing ecosystem: aircraft, engines, avionics, MRO, training 00:06:45 Composites and 3D printing meet the regulator’s education curve 00:08:24 Industry 4.0 in aerospace manufacturing 00:08:47 Re...

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Dana Sande, President of the UND Aerospace Foundation, to explore how the University of North Dakota became a global leader in aviation and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) education. From pioneering the first unmanned aircraft pilot degree program in the U.S. to building cutting-edge facilities like Gorman Field, the conversation dives into UND’s influence on commercial aviation, UAS innovation, and partnerships with both private industry and the military. Listeners will gain insight into how UND’s Aerospace Foundation helps the university “operate at the speed of business,” supporting rapid prototyping, pilot training, and drone testing—all while keeping education affordable for future aviation leaders. If you’ve ever wondered how UND shaped the future of unmanned aviation and why Grand Forks has become a hub for aerospace innovation, this episode is packed with answers. Episode Highlights How UND pioneered unmanned aircraft pilot training in the U.S. The UND Aerospace Foundation’s unique role in bridging education with industry. Stories of partnerships with Cirrus, Cessna, and XTI Aerospace. Inside Gorman Field – UND’s state-of-the-art facility for UAS training and testing. Why UND grads are flying more MQ-9 Predators than anyone outside the U.S. military. The growing importance of counter-drone technology and defense innovation. Key Points with Timestamps [00:00:00] Dana Sande introduces UND’s leadership in unmanned aircraft pilot training—the first degree program of its kind in the U.S. [00:02:16] UND trains across all aviation sectors: pilot training, air traffic control, engineering, atmospheric sciences, and airport management. [00:03:35] Origins of the UND Aerospace Foundation (1985) and its mission to help UND operate at the speed of business. [00:04:34] Partnership examples: factory training for Cirrus, managing Cessna’s eLearning, FAA-mandated training courses.

India may be the world’s seventh-largest country with the largest population, but when it comes to helicopters, the numbers tell a surprising story—just 270 helicopters serve over 1.4 billion people. In this episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Air Marshal (Retd.) Anil Butola, President of the Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI) and former Indian Air Force test pilot, to unpack the state of India’s helicopter and vertical lift industry. From his 42-year career in the Indian Air Force to leading efforts to reform civil aviation regulations, Air Marshal Butola shares unique insights into India’s helicopter challenges, opportunities, and the emerging role of EVTOLs and advanced air mobility. This episode dives into the regulatory hurdles, infrastructure gaps, and the bold vision for India’s vertical flight future. Whether you’re an aviation professional, policymaker, or simply curious about the next frontier in aerospace, this conversation delivers insider perspectives on the future of vertical lift in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. ✈️ Episode Highlights India’s surprisingly small civilian helicopter fleet compared to its size and population. The critical role of RWSI in shaping policy and industry growth. Current helicopter applications: offshore oil & gas, pilgrimage routes, charters. Challenges in law enforcement, emergency medical services, and air ambulance use. How fiscal and regulatory hurdles limit industry growth. The promise—and roadblocks—of EVTOL adoption in India. Why RWSI is pushing for a dedicated Helicopter Directorate under DGCA. Air Marshal Butola’s personal journey from fighter pilot and test pilot to industry advocate. ⏱️ Key Points with Timestamps [00:00:03] India’s helicopter gap: only 270 helicopters for the world’s largest population. [00:01:55] Transitioning from 42 years in uniform to civilian life. [00:02:56] Joining the Rotary Wing Society of India and becoming its President. [00:04:03] RWSI’s role in policy influence and working with regulators.