Parimal Kopardekar

Parimal Kopardekar, commonly known as PK, is a prominent figure in the aerospace industry and currently serves as the Director of NASA Aeronautics Research Institute (NARI) at NASA.13 He is also the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Mission Integration Manager at NASA.2

Professional Background

PK has an extensive career at NASA, where he has held several key positions:

• Director of NASA Aeronautics Research Institute (NARI) (June 2018 - present)1
• Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Mission Integration Manager2
• Project Manager, NextGen Concepts and Technology Development Project (2010-2015)1
• Principal Investigator, NextGen-Airspace Project (2008-2010)1

Areas of Expertise

PK's expertise spans various aerospace-related fields, including:

• Autonomy and drones
• Urban/Advanced Air Mobility
• Wildfire management
• Space traffic management
• Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM)
• Air traffic management
• Supply chain management1

Notable Achievements

Innovations:: PK is recognized as the inventor and global patent holder of the Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) concept and technology, which has gained worldwide acceptance.17 He has been identified as one of the top 25 persons in the drone industry.1

Research Leadership:: He led the formulation of an autonomy-focused project addressing future needs of air transportation, including the Safe Autonomous System Operations project.1

Academic Involvement:: PK has experience as an adjunct faculty member, teaching courses at Northeastern University's School of Business and Colorado State University-Global Campus.1

Professional Activities

• Co-Editor in Chief of the Journal of Aerospace Operations (JAO) since 20121
• Member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)34

In his role as Director of NARI, PK is responsible for identifying and initiating game-changing initiatives that aim to transform the US aerospace industry.14 His work focuses on exploring new trends and fostering innovation in aerospace technology and operations.56