Federal Approval for Avalanche Drones in USA
19th July 2026
The Federal Aviation Administration has granted regulatory approval for the operation of the MONTIS drone-based avalanche control system. NEW
The system is made by Drone Amplified and the authorities are allowing US resorts to conduct drone-based avalanche control operations.
It is being seen as significant development for mountain safety and will be watched closely by resorts around the world.
Ski resorts can now integrate the MONTIS drone system alongside their existing safety systems.
It allows the ski patrol to remotely trigger controlled avalanches from a safe distance.
It is built by the engineering team behind the IGNIS firefighting drone and developed with explosive company Austin Powder and CIL Avalanche.
The system integrates field-proven ignition and explosive technology trusted by safety professionals for decades.
“Our mission is simple: use robotics to make the most dangerous jobs safer,” said Carrick Detweiler, CEO of Drone Amplified.
“Avalanche mitigation crews protect communities and keep critical infrastructure open every single day.”
Avalanche drone. Image c/o Drone Amplified.
Further information is available at Drone Amplified.
Related Articles:
- Successful use of drone in avalanche rescue
- Canada set to use drones for avalanche control
- Scottish mountain rescue teams trial use of drones
