West Avia invited aviation operators from South Ostrobothnia to a joint event to discuss the unmanned aviation test environment currently under development and its future. The discussion provided further insight into how the test environment will operate and also highlighted promising opportunities for regional collaboration.
The unmanned aviation test environment being developed at West Avia will create new opportunities in the region for aviation testing, development and piloting. Safety and the coordination of new and existing aviation activities play a key role in the development work.
At the event organised for aviation operators in South Ostrobothnia, West Avia presented the test environment, its future plans and safety-related operating practices. The aviation operators also had the opportunity to share their views and ask questions about the practical operation of the test environment.
Matti Huoviala from Innoavia answered questions from the aviation community and provided further information on topics including the operation of the test environment and the use of airspace. The discussion was open, positive and constructive.
From Dialogue to Collaboration
The event also highlighted opportunities to make use of the region’s existing aviation expertise and infrastructure as part of the test environment’s future activities. The discussion explored potential forms of collaboration with Menkijärvi Airfield and other aviation operators in the region.
Collaboration with local operators can bring new perspectives, expertise and practical opportunities to the development of the test environment. At the same time, open dialogue helps to coordinate different aviation needs and build a shared understanding of how the test environment will operate.
The development of the West Avia test environment continues, alongside ongoing dialogue with aviation operators in the region. The aim is to identify opportunities together that could lead to concrete forms of collaboration in the future.
Highlights from the Discussion Event
Elisabet Kivimäki
Yrityskehityspäällikkö, Into Seinäjoki
