From innovation to everyday and scalable implementation. That is the major challenge facing the UAS industry. And it is the responsibility of the European Union and its Member States to pave the way for the industry in this regard. UAV DACH articulated this clear demand during the European Commission’s recent Drone Expert Group meeting.
The European Association for Unmanned Aviation was represented in Brussels by Oliver Lichtenstein (Vice Chairman of the Executive Board) and Michael Wieland (Head of Advisory Committee). Both urged the European Commission and the EU Member States to act more swiftly and, above all, more cohesively regarding the UAS industry. Significant disparities in the implementation of European regulations, combined with often protracted procedures, are stifling the drone economy and frequently make it impossible to conduct economically viable business operations. Greater speed and mutual trust among EU member states and competent authorities – particularly regarding the mutual acceptance of authorizations and permissions – are essential here.
At the same time, Lichtenstein and Wieland called for greater consistency in sanctioning illegal drone operations. A crucial step in this direction is mandating electronic conspicuity for all participants in lower airspace via ADS-L, alongside the creation of a common situational awareness.