General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA‑ASI) has flown a new MQ-9 reaper remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) to a customer location for the first time at Holloman Air Force Base (AFB) in New Mexico.

Conventionally, the aircraft when delivered is packed and shipped by the company. Once delivered, it is reassembled at the customer location.

Flying to Holloman AFB, the delivery of the aircraft saved costs and time invested for shipping. Time required for reassembly was also reduced.

This made the reaper aircraft available for training immediately upon arrival.

The flight took off from GA-ASI’s Flight Operations Center in Palmdale, California and flew through the National Airspace System (NAS).

Combined efforts of the Holloman AFB air crews ensured the successful ferry of the aircraft.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

GA-ASI president David Alexander said: “GA-ASI continues to lead the charge towards enabling large unmanned aircraft to fly in the NAS.

“Our efforts, along with other partners, are gaining momentum and successfully flying the MQ-9 to our US Air Force (USAF) customer further demonstrates the safety and efficiency of RPA flight in the broader airspace.”

According to the USAF, the process of flying the aircraft for delivery has been estimated to save 142-man hours.

49th Operations Group commander colonel Casey Tidgewell said: “This is the first time that team Holloman has taken delivery of a new MQ-9 by ferry flight.

“It’s critically important because flying outside of our training area helps normalize RPA flight inside the NAS and provides broader aviation experience for our instructors. I could not be more proud of our operations and maintenance professionals that made this happen.”

Airforce Technology Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Airforce Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now