This week’s news round up features stories on how the FAA rescinded their NOTAM from January, TECO’s drone showcased at XPONENTIAL, and heavy-lift eVTOL flight in China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Recently, that NOTAM has been rescinded.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 vehicle hairpin motor technology for UAV use. TECO says the propulsion system delivers up to 76.5 kilograms of thrust per shaft while improving efficiency and extending flight time by roughly 20% compared to conventional brushless DC motors.

TECO also showcased its All-in-One robotic joint module, an integrated system designed for robotic arms, quadruped robots, and humanoid robots. The company emphasized its plans to expand in North America through TECO-Westinghouse’s Texas-based operations, offering localized support and integrated solutions for commercial UAV and robotics customers. TECO said its UAV technology is already being used by agricultural drone operators and is undergoing further North American validation, with Green UAS certification expected by the end of 2026. 

Fresh Tea Delivered in Minutes in China

AUTOFLIGHT completed China’s first 2-ton-class eVTOL transport trial in Guizhou, using its autonomous CarryAll (V2000CG) cargo aircraft to move freshly harvested tea between two cities roughly 120 kilometers apart. The unmanned flight crossed mountainous terrain in 37 minutes, dramatically reducing transport time compared to traditional road delivery. After arriving in Guiyang, the tea continued to Shanghai by high-speed rail, allowing the product to reach eastern China consumers within 24 hours of harvest.

The trial demonstrated a new “eVTOL + high-speed rail” logistics model designed for remote agricultural regions. AUTOFLIGHT says the fully electric aircraft offers advantages including autonomous operation, zero operational emissions, fast point-to-point transport, and vertical takeoff capability without runways. The CarryAll can carry payloads up to 400 kilograms, fly up to 200 kilometers, and cruise at approximately 180 km/h. The company plans to expand the model to additional agricultural and cargo applications as it continues broader eVTOL commercialization efforts.