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Turning to specific UAS matters, it is first necessary to demonstrate that the “machine” can safely move in the air, in controllable conditions (i.e. airworthiness). Secondly, civilian UAS have to be under the operational control of a properly qualified flight crew and under the legal responsibility of an air operator. This is sufficient to mitigate the risk for third parties on the ground, when the Unmanned Aircraft flies into segregated airspace. Therefore the Agency has published in August 2009 a “policy” for the airworthiness approval of UAS (based on the established Agency’s certification specifications - CSs) and has already received a number of applications for UAS in its remit (with a mass of 150 kg or more). The second step will be the activation of a multi-disciplinary task on UAS flight crews and operators, which will be harmonised with the approach proposed by ICAO in the UAS “Circular” expected in 2010.
At a later stage, once industry will have brought to maturity the “detect and avoid” technology, more rules for the integration of UAS in the ATM environment will be developed. It is interesting to note in this respect that, according to a study contracted by EASA in 2009, it could be envisaged to allow, under proper safety oversight, communications for UAS to be provided by an organisation different from the UAS operator (e.g. a SATCOM ANS Provider).
EASA remains committed to develop proportionate safety regulation for UAS in cooperation with other organisations and stakeholders.
Patrick Goudou Executive Director European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) |
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Over the last several years, the awareness of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) has grown rapidly. Furthermore, UAS technology holds the potential to offer many benefits. In a November 2009 speech, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt extolled the merits of UAS saying, “The technology has shown amazing potential.”
However, likening the effect of UAS to the advent of the jet engine, Administrator Babbitt also acknowledged the level of technical maturity is not where it needs to be for full operation in the National Airspace System (NAS). “We’re talking about an exponential leap in capability,” referring to the development of sense-and-avoid technology, the keystone for successful UAS integration. “We have to make sure sense-and-avoid is more than a given - it must be a guarantee,” Babbitt added.
Currently, UAS operations for civilian commercial purposes are largely prohibited, limited to mainly research and development, product demonstration, or crew training with an experimental certification. In the United States, public-use applicants for UAS must obtain a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). Despite the multitude of restrictions, COA applications have increased nearly tenfold in recent years. Realizing the rapid expansion of this billion-dollar industry, the FAA is taking steps toward allowing small unmanned aircraft to operate commercially in the NAS - under low-risk conditions - in the near future.
As part of the rulemaking process, the FAA formed an Aviation Rulemaking Committee to develop recommendations for consideration. The FAA expects to have a published Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) by mid-2011, with a final rule expected in late 2012.
John M. Allen Director, Flight Standards Service Federal AviationAdministration (FAA) |
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The Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) will be the next step in the aeronautics evolution. They will change forever the way humans use airspace, bringing to society the benefit of new applications unfeasible or unpractical until now. Dull, dirty, dangerous; but also more economic operations will be possible.
The birth of this multi-million Euro industry has just occurred. It is just a matter of time for this industry to mature. Most of the basic enabling technologies are already in place; but there is a major obstacle to such development: UAS safe introduction into non segregated airspace. Regardless of your role in the UAS industry: user, operator, trainer, integrator or equipment provider, you will get different statements from authorities and industry regarding UAS airworthiness certification. Moreover, depending on your country or background (i.e. military or civil), you will see different certification approaches and standards being proposed. Finally, there are many ways to access airspace (i.e. experimental, exhibition, aerial works, etc) for different kind of users (i.e. government or private) which require a particular approach on a case-by-case basis.
This situation has been like that for the past few years and it is likely to continue for the next ones, making a sound advice a must before starting new developments or making new investments.
Renaissance Consulting is exclusively dedicated to provide consultancy, project management, products and certification services for the unmanned industry. Our capabilities and experience in certification cover all aspects: system, hardware and software. Let us deal with the complexities of the certification while you dedicate your efforts to your business.
Agustin Arjonilla Managing Director Renaissance Consulting S.L. |
