Since 26 January 2023, the so-called U-Space areas can theoretically be set up in Europe. These specially designed geo-zones were devised to ensure safe flight operations in areas with a (potentially) high volume of UAS operations. While some politicians and regulators have great expectations regarding U-Spaces, the industry is looking at what could lie ahead with mixed feelings. Because increased safety in flight operations is one thing. More effort and higher costs are another.

EU member states and Switzerland, which has adopted the EU legal framework for operating unmanned aircraft systems, have some flexibility in implementing U-Spaces. However, avoiding market fragmentation through interoperable solutions is essential for the drone economy. Nevertheless, no standard approach is to be expected. Long story short: Market fragmentation regarding the implementation of U-spaces seems inevitable.

Amanda Boekholt, Acting Head of the Technology and Innovation Section at the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), and Dr. Jan Dirks, Department LF 19 – Future of Aviation at the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, will discuss the current state of U-space implementation in Switzerland and Germany and discover similarities and differences. Prof. Dr Karsten Benz, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Droniq and Professor of Air Traffic Management at Worms University, will host the town hall debate „Same, but different: Diverging approaches for U-Space implementation“ at the EUROPEAN DRONE FORUM in Düsseldorf.

At a glance:
17 February, 12:15 p.m.
Same, but different: Diverging approaches for U-Space implementation

Debaters:
Amanda Boekholt, Acting Head Technology and Innovation Section, Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA)
Dr. Jan Dirks, Department LF 19 – Future of Aviation, Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport

Host:
Prof. Dr. Karsten Benz, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Droniq GmbH and Professor of Air Traffic Management at Worms University

The 2025 edition of the EUROPEAN DRONE FORUM hosted by UAV DACH – Association for Unmanned Aviation on 17-18 February will be the first to take place in Düsseldorf – embedded into the world premiere of the XPONENTIAL Europe. Together, we will identify the main obstacles for the UAS industry and discuss how these can be cleared. Fully in line with the theme of the EUROPEAN DRONE FORUM 2025: „Shaping the future: Clearing obstacles to commercial UAS operations in Europe”

Get your ticket here: https://lnkd.in/e8uFBuTA