A UAS with one or more propellers used for vertical lift and landing is classified as what type of UAS?

A UAS, or Unmanned Aerial System, that utilizes one or more propellers for vertical lift and landing is classified as a rotary UAS. This classification is based on its ability to hover and maneuver in ways that fixed-wing systems cannot, primarily due to the rotor design that allows for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL).

Rotary UAS are commonly known for their versatility, particularly in urban environments and confined spaces, where conventional fixed-wing aircraft would struggle to operate due to their need for longer runways for takeoff and landing. The propeller system in a rotary UAS enables them to maintain stable flight at lower speeds, which is advantageous for tasks such as surveillance, mapping, and even cargo delivery.

In contrast, fixed-wing UAS rely on wings for lift and require ongoing forward motion to remain airborne, making them unsuitable for vertical lift operations. Hybrid UAS incorporate features from both fixed-wing and rotary systems but are distinct from purely rotary UAS. Navigational UAS is not a specific classification related to the design and functionality based on lift and landing methods. Thus, identifying a UAS with propellers for vertical operations as a rotary UAS accurately reflects its mechanism and use case in aerial applications.