FAA Says Resorts Can Now Use Specialized Drones For Avalanche Control

Avalanche control operations just got a little more tech-y. 

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently granted regulatory approval for Drone Amplified’s MONTIS system, specifically designed for avalanche control operations. The FAA’s decision gives ski resorts around the country a clear framework to implement and operate the MONTIS system, and it is a clear step forward for mountain safety.



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The MONTIS System

MONTIS is a complete drone-based system that lets resorts trigger controlled avalanches from a safe distance. With the system, avalanche control crews fly MONTIS drones over predicted avalanche areas and drop fully integrated charges to initiate controlled avalanches. The drones include a patent-pending ability to disarm the charges mid-flight, giving drone operators complete control.

Drone Amplified designed MONTIS with safety in mind. It allows teams to conduct avalanche mitigation from a safe and remote location, removing personnel from direct exposure to avalanche paths or the risks associated with operating helicopters in hazardous conditions. The system also serves as a strong alternative to using artillery and as a reliable backup for when remote avalanche control systems (RACS) are down for maintenance.

To make the MONTIS system even more appealing to ski resorts, it is a much cheaper alternative to purchasing a new RACS tower, which can be a major expenditure for resorts. Given its mobility, the system serves as a cost-effective tool for expanding avalanche control operations and a maintenance backup plan for a resort’s existing infrastructure.

Founded in 2015, Drone Amplified built MONTIS using its current IGNIS system as inspiration. The IGNIS system, which has been utilized in wildland firefighting for years, has helped the company build its reputation as a leader in remote safety operations.



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Supplementing Existing Operations

For years, resorts have used a variety of methods for avalanche control and mitigation. Manned helicopters, RACS towers, artillery, and skilled ground personnel have all been utilized. With the new FAA approval, ski resorts now have a legal path to integrate MONTIS alongside these existing methods, giving ski resorts a new remote option to trigger avalanches in the event of maintenance or unsafe conditions.

New Technology at Ski Resorts

The FAA’s approval of the MONTIS system comes as ski resorts are increasingly turning to new technology to improve operations. In addition to drones, some resorts have turned to artificial intelligence to assist with safety operations. For example, New York’s Belleayre Mountain launched its A.I. Ski Patrol Drone Program in April 2025, which started replacing traditional human ski patrollers with state-of-the-art, artificially intelligent aerial guardians. Other resorts are beginning to do the same.

The push for drones at ski resorts partially stems from a 2025 Executive Order issued by United States President Donald Trump, who wanted to ensure continued American leadership in the development, commercialization, and export of drones. The order paved the way for FAA approval of the MONTIS system by enabling routine “Beyond Visual Line of Sight” drone operations for commercial and public safety missions.

As A.I. and drone technology continue to improve, their role in avalanche control and other safety operations will very likely increase. With technology specifically designed for avalanche control, ski resorts can turn to drones to cover ground more efficiently, quickly, and safely when threats are imminent.



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