Innovators
Mark Blanks – Head of Global Flight Operations at Wing
Mark Blanks – Head of Global Flight Operations, Standards & Regulatory Affairs, Wing
Mark Blanks is helping build the operational foundation for global drone delivery. As Wing’s Head of Global Flight Operations, Standards, and Regulatory Affairs, he plays a critical role in ensuring that drone systems are safe, compliant, and scalable across regions. With experience in both UAS testing and airspace policy, Blanks brings a rare blend of technical expertise and regulatory strategy. His leadership helps Wing move from pilot programs into real-world operations that meet the expectations of aviation authorities and the public alike.
Setting the Bar for Safe Global Drone Operations
Blanks leads Wing’s global flight operations, regulatory alignment, and safety protocols. His job is to ensure that Wing’s delivery drones meet aviation-grade safety standards and operate seamlessly in different airspaces. To achieve this, he brings together flight planning, pilot oversight, maintenance policies, and international compliance frameworks.
Mark Blanks’ Background in Aviation and Testing
Before joining Wing, Blanks managed UAS research at Virginia Tech, including work at one of the FAA’s designated UAS Test Sites. He also contributed to the launch of the ASSURE Center of Excellence at Kansas State University. These roles gave him deep experience in flight testing, waiver development, and drone certification. This foundation prepared him to lead operations in one of the world’s most advanced drone delivery companies.
Overseeing Wing’s Global Delivery Flights
At Wing, Blanks leads teams that manage every part of the flight process—from planning and pilot training to fleet maintenance and safety checks. His teams support delivery operations in the United States, Australia, Ireland, and Finland. In addition, Blanks oversees Wing’s air carrier certification with the FAA, making Wing one of the first drone delivery firms authorized to operate as a U.S. airline.
Driving Global Standards and Policy Engagement
Beyond internal operations, Blanks plays a major role in shaping industry-wide standards. He chairs the ASTM F38 Committee on Unmanned Aircraft Systems, where he works on setting guidelines for safety, cybersecurity, and performance. These standards are critical for global drone integration.
Under his leadership, Wing aligns with evolving regulations around Remote ID, UTM, and airspace safety. As a result, the company can grow responsibly while helping shape global aviation policy.
Mark Blanks’ Vision for Scalable Drone Delivery
Blanks sees drone delivery as an essential part of future logistics infrastructure. He believes operations must be safe, regulated, and predictable—just like traditional aviation. He also emphasizes the importance of standardization, continuous improvement, and public trust.
Looking forward, he envisions Wing supporting national drone corridors, cross-border UTM integration, and real-time airspace coordination. His goal is to move drone delivery from testing environments into daily life.
Closing Thoughts on Mark Blanks’ Leadership at Wing
Mark Blanks brings together engineering skill and regulatory insight to lead one of the most ambitious drone delivery programs in the world. His work ensures Wing can operate safely, scale globally, and set the standard for autonomous aviation. Through his leadership, drone delivery is no longer just a future concept—it’s becoming part of modern infrastructure.
Connect With Mark Banks
Learn more about Mark Banks’ leadership in global drone delivery, flight operations, and aviation policy through the following channels.
