European Network of U-space Stakeholders Meeting in Madrid

Marina Estal provided an overview of Spain's U-Space implementation approach, highlighting their core objectives, including focusing on aerospace matters, national service provision, U-Space deployment, and cooperation with various entities. They have also established a strategic partnership with the military for effective airspace management. Spain's certification process has been developed and is available in Spanish, with no fees for applicants. National criteria for safety, security, and environmental aspects are already in place. Implementation of U-space in Spain involves three tiers of administration, with communication through the U-Space portal open to the public. Surveys will be used to engage the public on drone-related topics. Marina also emphasised the importance of U-Space airspace criteria and coordination mechanisms.

In this session, Robin and Andrew shared information about ongoing global activities related to U-space/UTM. Robin presented SESAR's efforts in global U-Space/UTM activities. SESAR has organised its work into three main groups: developing a shared vision, addressing advanced air mobility (AAM) and long-term planning, and an exploratory working group. The AAM Vision Group aims to advise ICAO on adapting to the changing landscape of AAM and is conducting an assessment of current and future AAM states. The second group is focused on producing ICAO guidance for states to establish U-Space, while the exploratory group identifies gaps and challenges. The presentation highlighted the need for AAM regulation in Africa and the challenges of harmonisation. Andrew Hately provided an overview of CORUS-XUAM CONOPs. Several members from audience were invited to share their knowledge and information about the role of their organisation in global U-space/UTM activities.

Stephane Vaubourg highlighted the need for an airspace risk assessment (ARA) required by the U-space regulation 2021/664. Norberto Vera Velez presented the airspace risk assessment method, assessment process, learning outcomes from assessments conducted so far and the next steps. Norberto shared with the audience practical examples from already conducted assessments and provided advise on where to find more information.

These presentations collectively provided valuable insights into the current state of U-Space implementation and global U-Space/UTM activities, addressing various challenges, opportunities, and regulatory aspects in the evolving field of unmanned aviation.