The growing integration of UAS/UTM into national airspace: A collaborative approach to safety and efficiency
CANSO Operations Programme Operations System Integration Workgroup (OSIWG) looks at the findings of a recent survey into the integration of unmanned aircraft.
As Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems continue to evolve, the integration of these technologies into national airspace is becoming more structured and regulated. A recent survey conducted by the CANSO UTM Task Force sheds light on the significant steps that are being taken to create a safe and efficient framework for UAS operations. The survey identified a number of key findings for successful UAS/UTM integration.
A Robust Regulatory Framework is Growing
One of the most striking results from the survey is the growth of a regulatory framework for UAS operations, with over 50 per cent of the respondents having already published national regulations. These regulations are critical for defining how UAS should be managed and controlled in national airspace. Key aspects of these regulations include the classification of UAS as well as mandatory registration for commercial operations of UAS, both of which help ensure that different categories of UAS are subject to appropriate operational rules, oversight and ensure compliance with airspace management regulations.
Collaboration Among Stakeholders: The Key to Effective UAS Management
The integration of UAS/UTM into national airspace is not just about having regulations in place; it also requires collaboration among various stakeholders. The survey highlights that 78 per cent of our members that responded are working closely with state regulators to manage the approval process for UAS operations. This collaboration is essential to ensure that UAS operators are well-informed about the regulatory requirements and that regulators and ANSPs are aware of UAS operations to monitor and manage them effectively.
Safety First: Protecting Both Manned and Unmanned Aviation
Safety remains the number one priority when it comes to UAS/UTM operations. The survey results demonstrate that safety concerns are central to how UAS operations are managed. Notably, 81 per cent of survey participants impose restrictions on UAS operations near airfields to prevent potential conflicts with manned aviation. These findings show that our members are working to ensure safety measures are upheld as the industry moves toward greater integration.
Moving Toward Controlled Airspace: Opportunities and Challenges
The integration of UAS into controlled airspace represents a significant milestone for the industry. According to the survey, 50 per cent of participating organizations stated that ANSPs are actively working on incorporating UAS operations into controlled airspace, demonstrating an effort to expand UAS capabilities. However, a notable 20 per cent of ANSP respondents to the survey have yet to consider this transition, indicating that there is still work to be done.
The Future of UTM: Advancing Technologies and New Services
Looking ahead, UTM is expected to evolve and expand significantly. Lessons learned from UTM may accelerate the integration of high-altitude operations, advanced air mobility, and traditional aviation. One of the key recommendations emerging from the survey is the adoption of a single Flight Information Management System (FIMS) or Common Information Service Provider (CISP) for entire States, ideally managed by the ANSP. A centralised system can help streamline communication, improve situational awareness, and ensure that all stakeholders are working from the same information. This would not only enhance the efficiency of UAS operations but also reduce the complexity of managing multiple systems. As UAS operations become more frequent and diverse, flexibility and adaptability will be key to meeting the challenges of integrating these systems into both the high-altitude and low-altitude domains.
Conclusion: A Collaborative and Safety-Driven Future
The integration of UAS/UTM into national airspace represents a major leap forward in aviation technology, but it comes with its own set of challenges. The survey results emphasise that a collaborative approachâbetween regulators, ANSPs, UAS operators, and other stakeholdersâis essential for creating a framework that prioritises safety, ensures efficient management, and fosters industry growth.
As the industry continues to innovate, a steadfast commitment to safety, collaboration, and clear communication will be essential for building confidence in UAS operations. With the right regulatory frameworks, a well-organized management structure, and a focus on safety, UAS/UTM integration can become a model for future advancements in airspace management. This will ultimately pave the way for a sustainable, efficient, and safe integration of UAS into the global aviation ecosystem. CANSO and its members look forward to being key players in this ongoing discussion.
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Members of CANSOâs Operations Community can see a summary of the surveyâs findings on the Operations Standing Committeeâs page on myCANSO here.
