The U-EXPAND project has officially launched in Rome, with a consortium led by D-Flight beginning a three-year programme to develop technologies supporting the expansion of the U-space ecosystem.
Funded by the SESAR Joint Undertaking, the project will examine enhanced communications, navigation and surveillance (CNS) technologies for U-space operations, including the use of public 5G networks as shared aviation infrastructure.
U-EXPAND will develop three solutions during the project. The first will focus on advanced CNS capabilities for U3 U-space services, including new standards for CNS systems and the use of 5G networks.
The second, e-Conspicuity for U-space, will develop a location-sharing system for general aviation pilots using GNSS signals. The system is intended to allow pilots to share their position and access real-time traffic information through portable onboard devices, ground infrastructure and tracking networks.
The third will address the integration of crewed and uncrewed aircraft, extending U-space digital services to visual flight rules (VFR) pilots operating both inside and outside designated U-space airspace.
The consortium met at ENAV’s premises in Rome to mark the start of the project.
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Image: U-EXPAND