U-space Airspace Risk Assessment

Method and Guidelines - Volume 1

There may be many reasons for a state's authorities to consider designating part of their airspace as a U-space airspace, capable of safely managing the flights of many unmanned aircraft (UAS – drones), especially where manned aircraft may fly, and over urban areas.

The foreseen increase in UAS operations enabled by the implementation of U-space will also increase hazards to the other airspace users, people, and property if not addressed through appropriate mitigating measures. Whatever the reason, the European Commission's Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/664 [EU, 2021/664] states that an airspace risk assessment (ARA) is required to support the decision to designate a U-space airspace.

This risk assessment evaluates the risks related to UAS operations in the assessed airspace. It is the basis for the definition of UAS capabilities and performance requirements, U-space service performance requirements, and the operational conditions, airspace constraints and other measures necessary for mitigating the risks related to the planned U-space airspace to an acceptable level. The requirement for evaluating and so mitigating safety risks, such as the air and ground risks, is a major driver of these assessments. However, aspects related to security, privacy, and environmental issues may also require the implementation of appropriate risk mitigation measures.

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U-space Airspace Risk Assessment - Method and Guidelines - Volume 1