Vantis and iSight Drone Services bring real-world drone innovation to rural healthcare through Project RuralReach
A Breakthrough for Rural Medical Delivery
In a major step forward for drone-based logistics, North Dakota has completed a long-distance drone delivery of medical supplies—flying over 80 miles beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) from Williston to Watford City.
The mission was led by iSight Drone Services in collaboration with the Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS) and Vantis, North Dakota’s statewide BVLOS network. It was part of Project RuralReach, a federally funded program aimed at improving rural access to critical services through drone technology.
“This operation proves BVLOS can be done safely—even in complex, real-world rural environments—and that it can bring real value to North Dakota communities,” said Erin Roesler, Deputy Executive Director of the NPUASTS. “Supporting those missions – that’s the value of Vantis.”
Flying Through Uncontrolled Airspace
Unlike drone deliveries that take place in controlled urban environments, this flight crossed dynamic, rural airspace. Pilots had to navigate around low-flying aircraft, some of which may not have had transponders or communicated their positions.
To manage these risks, the flight relied on the Vantis network. This statewide system provides real-time surveillance, aircraft detection, and command-and-control capabilities.
The network was designed to enable BVLOS operations where traditional air traffic control systems may not reach. Vantis’ technology made the mission possible by offering the tools to detect and avoid other aircraft safely.
Project RuralReach and iSight’s Role
Project RuralReach is led by the University of North Dakota Center for Innovation and funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). It aims to show how drone technology can help rural areas by improving quality of life and economic resilience.
The iSight flight was the first demonstration under this project. The company received $50,000 to test long-range drone delivery in western North Dakota.
The goals of the project include:
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Rural Delivery: Supplying medical and essential items to remote communities
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Sustainable Operations: Using renewable power to extend flight range
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Emergency Response: Enabling rapid deployment in disaster situations
Jeff Barta, Project Manager with the Center for Innovation, praised the team at Vantis for their work. “Their diligent and tireless work behind the scenes in planning and ultimately executing the flight fully illustrates why they are recognized as leaders in UAS development,” he said. “Their performance, from our original briefing to the final landing, can only be described as being impeccable.”
A Vision for the Future of Rural Logistics
This mission demonstrates how advanced drone operations can improve access to healthcare and emergency response in rural regions. It also reflects North Dakota’s leadership in building a statewide strategy for UAS commercialization.
The success of this BVLOS flight is more than just a technical achievement—it represents a meaningful step toward improving equity and access for rural communities.
About Vantis
Vantis is North Dakota’s statewide uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) BVLOS network, the first of its kind in the U.S. Administered by the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, Vantis supports commercial and public UAS operators with both infrastructure and regulatory tools. Learn more at VantisUAS.com.
About Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS)
NPUASTS is one of seven FAA-designated UAS Test Sites. It supports research, testing, and integration of drone technologies into the National Airspace System. The site also helps develop policy and standards for safe UAS operations. Visit NPUASTS.com for more.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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