The unmanned aerial vehicle industry is seen as an emerging market. UAVs, for short, could be a part of the answer for Wichita’s aircraft industry, which is currently going through one of its worst slumps.

There are already Kansas companies involved in the UAV industry. Right now, leaders of the industry are in Wichita to learn about the latest UAV developments.

The military has been flying UAVs for years. They’re often used for reconnaissance in Iraq and Afghanistan, but the future is getting them into public and private sector use.

“We think there’s an opportunity for UAVs to be used in America in the public sector for situational awareness and again to help direct public safety,” said Major General Todd Bunting, Kansas Adjutant General.

Currently, UAVs are not allowed to fly in public airspace; a situation that will not change until the FAA is convinced they can operate safely without endangering those below.

The Salina airport is trying to attract unmanned air system business. The K-State campus there will be training students to fly them, thanks to the airports added benefit of being located near the Smoky Hill Range, which is operated by the Air National Guard.

In the future, perhaps, Kansas may be able to add UAVs to its industrial base.