The Informal Drone Expert Group (IDEG) at the European Commission in Brussels recently met to discuss a range of topics related to commercial drone use. IDEG advises and supports the EU Commission in implementing measures aimed at integrating drones into the aviation system and creating a suitable operating environment and infrastructure for drones.
The Association for Unmanned Aviation (UAV DACH) is part of the group and was represented at the meeting by Vice Chairman Oliver Lichtenstein. Sharing details from the meeting, UAV DACH said participants “agreed that the implementation of Brussels’ U-Space regulations within the member states is currently highly inadequate, and that a uniform approach within the European Union is currently rather unlikely”. UAV DACH says further work is needed in this area to avoid “a patchwork of differing regulations or the permanent absence of U-Space areas”.
The committee members also addressed the ongoing frequency allocation process for UAS operations. UAV DACH said that the Radio Spectrum Committee is expected to issue resolutions on this matter before the end of this year, which should lead to simplified regulations for BVLOS flights, even across national borders.
Two current initiatives were also discussed. “Supporters hope that the “EU Trusted Drone Label” would give manufacturers the opportunity to clearly demonstrate to potential customers – as a confidence-building measure, so to speak – that their product meets extensive safety and security requirements,” UAV DACH said. “In this regard, UAV DACH believes that the design of such a label must be strictly consistent with existing regulations to provide legal certainty for manufacturers and operators. This is especially true should such a label become mandatory.”
Joining the meeting virtually, UAV DACH board member Michael Wieland presented a concept for a comprehensive rollout of ADS-L technology in lower airspace, coordinated within UAV DACH. The goal is to contribute to increased acceptance of eConspicuity through significantly improved use. It also aims to significantly increase the level of safety and the available data on traffic in lower airspace.
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Image: UAV DACH
