Historic UAS Flight Connects Blacksburg and Blackstone, Virginia
Historic UAS Flight Connects Blacksburg and Blackstone, Virginia
September 23, 2026
Blackstone, Virginia continues to emerge as an important location for unmanned aviation and advanced air mobility.
On September 22, 2026, Textron Systems announced that its Aerosonde® Mk. 4.7 VTOL uncrewed aircraft system completed a milestone flight through commercial airspace from Blacksburg to Blackstone. The demonstration was conducted with Virginia Tech’s Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership as part of the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Smart Airspace Program.
Nearly 150 Nautical Miles to Blackstone
The aircraft departed from a vertiport at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute in Blacksburg, traveled nearly 150 nautical miles and landed at the vertiport at Textron Systems’ Aerosonde Center of Excellence in Blackstone. Textron reports a flight time of two and a half hours.
According to Textron Systems, this was the first UAS flight through commercial airspace using vertiports for both takeoff and landing.
September 22 is the announcement date. Virginia Tech’s September 22 report describes the demonstrations as having taken place during summer 2026; it does not give an exact flight date.
Why Blackstone?
Blackstone combines aviation infrastructure with established unmanned-aircraft operations and training facilities. Textron’s Aerosonde Center of Excellence overview describes a 38,000-square-foot facility supporting production, assembly, testing, classroom instruction and flight-line training. The site also serves as a global logistics hub for the Aerosonde family.
Virginia Tech identifies Allen C. Perkinson Airport in Blackstone as one of the locations connected by the developing Smart Airspace network, alongside Blacksburg and Roanoke. The university says the program is developing routes and landing procedures suited to advanced air mobility aircraft.
Blackstone’s Aerospace and UAS Community
The demonstration adds a new milestone to Blackstone’s existing aviation activity. For background on local facilities and organizations, explore our Blackstone Aerospace & UAS guide.
The flight is a research and integration milestone. These announcements do not establish a new passenger service, a new investment amount or a specific number of new jobs.
What Could This Mean for Blackstone?
Aviation research, testing and training can bring engineers, technicians, instructors, researchers and other professionals into a community. As the network develops, Blackstone’s participation could create further opportunities for this kind of activity. Future visitor numbers and lodging demand remain uncertain.
Grey Swan Inn will continue following confirmed developments in our What’s New in Blackstone series.
Visiting Blackstone for Aviation, Training or Business?
Grey Swan Inn welcomes work travelers to a historic home at 615 South Main Street in Blackstone. Our six guest rooms have private bathrooms, with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, free on-site parking and shared parlors and porch space for unwinding after the workday.
The inn is approximately an eight-minute drive from Blackstone Army Airfield and Allen C. Perkinson Airport. Travel times vary; confirm access and arrival arrangements with your host.
Weekly and monthly rates are available. Explore Business & Extended-Stay Lodging or our Blackstone Army Airfield Lodging guide, and call (434) 264-1806 to discuss dates and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was significant about the flight?
Textron describes it as the first UAS flight in commercial airspace with vertiports at both ends, connecting Blacksburg and Blackstone.
Is Blackstone part of Virginia’s Smart Airspace network?
Yes. Virginia Tech’s report identifies Blackstone, Blacksburg and Roanoke as locations in the developing network.
Does Textron Systems operate in Blackstone?
Yes. Its Aerosonde Center of Excellence supports aircraft assembly, testing, training and logistics.
Where can aviation professionals stay in Blackstone?
Grey Swan Inn offers nightly stays and weekly and monthly rates. Contact the inn to confirm availability and terms for your visit.