Galaxy Unmanned Systems LLC has earned FAA certification for the first set of its 55+ lb. line of unmanned airships, marking a ground-breaking achievement in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
“This certification isn’t just a win for Galaxy—it’s a breakthrough for the aviation industry,” said Jason White, CEO of Galaxy Unmanned Systems, a TechFW client. “Our Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) technology airships represent the future of unmanned systems, combining autonomy, sustainability, and unmatched operational flexibility.”
The FAA approval covers Galaxy’s GC35-E2, GC35-E4, and GC50-E4 models – cutting-edge airships designed for extended operations, heavy payloads, and seamless integration into national airspace. With unmatched versatility, these platforms open exciting opportunities across commercial and defense applications, including:
- Surveillance: Elevated, wide-area monitoring for security operations.
- Broadcasting: Improved coverage for large-scale events.
- Event Security: Safeguarding festivals, rallies, and high-profile venues.
- Counter-UAS Operations: Cost-effective detection and mitigation of rogue drones.
- Disaster Relief: Rapid delivery of communication and situational tools to areas hit by hurricanes, tornadoes or fires.
- Search and Rescue: Enhanced aerial support for locating individuals.
Galaxy’s certified airships deliver game-changing capabilities for industries requiring cost-effective, resilient, and environmentally conscious solutions, and are uniquely suited for missions that traditional aircraft cannot fulfill.
“With this certification, we’re excited to continue our conversations and move forward as a partner with commercial and government leaders to explore their needs and our possibilities,” White said.
Galaxy’s journey back to the skies comes after a 17-year wait. In 2007, the FAA suspended commercial drone operations in the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS), halting Galaxy’s early advancements in unmanned airship technology. That decision left hundreds of pioneering companies, including Galaxy, in limbo.
“Momentum resumed in 2018 with regulatory updates, allowing exemptions for unmanned aircraft exceeding 55 pounds. Galaxy seized that opportunity, and after hundreds of tests, submitted its certification request in May 2024, said Tony White, Galaxy’s COO.
“The FAA’s approval is the result of a lot of employee efforts, diligence and patience,” Tony White said. “We hope to push the boundaries of air mobility, pave the way for innovative operations in restricted airspace, delivering solutions that are safer, smarter, and more sustainable.”
About Galaxy Unmanned Systems LLC
Galaxy Unmanned Systems LLC is a leader in Advanced Air Mobility, pioneering unmanned airship technology to deliver sustainable, cost-effective solutions for commercial and defense applications. A link to the regulations.gov decision can be found here.
