Around the Commercial Drone Industry: NOTAM Rescinded, technology at AUVSI’s XPONENTIAL, Heavy-lift eVTOL
https://www.commercialuavnews.com/notam-rescinded-technology-at-auvsi-s-xponential-heavy-lift-evtol
Publish Date: 2026-05-15 09:23:00
Source Domain: www.commercialuavnews.com
May 15, 2026
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This week’s news round up features stories on how the FAA rescinded their NOTAM from January, TECO’s drone showcased at XPONENTIAL, and heavy-lift eVTOL flight in China
FAA Rescinds Controversial NOTAM
January of this year, the FAA released a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) that prohibiting flights around government buildings and vehicles. This notice quickly became controversial due to its hinderance of journalists using drones to document law enforcement activities, many noting it unconstitutional.
Recently, that NOTAM has been rescinded. The original January NOTAM threatened drone operators with criminal prosecution, civil penalties, and certificate revocation for violations. The updated advisory removes the explicit no-fly restrictions and instead tells drone pilots to “exercise caution” near federal mobile assets, while still warning that agencies may take action against drones considered security threats.
The policy change came after the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press sued the FAA on behalf of Minnesota photojournalist Rob Levine, arguing the restrictions violated First Amendment rights and created a chilling effect on lawful journalism. While the FAA said the revision was made in response to user feedback, Levine and the RCFP called the rollback a victory but said the lawsuit will continue, arguing the agency overstepped its authority by imposing the original restrictions.
TECO Showcases Heavy Payload Drone at XPONENTIAL
TECO Electric & Machinery Co. and its U.S. subsidiary, TECO-Westinghouse Motor Company, showcased a new propulsion systems and robotic technologies at XPONENTIAL 2026 in Detroit. The company unveiled a drone powertrain platform designed for UAVs carrying payloads between 10 kg and 100 kg, designed for applications such as agricultural spraying and logistics transportation. The system combines the T Power Air 12.5kW hairpin motor with the TE250 electronic speed controller, adapting electric…
