INTEGRATING UAVs WITH CONVENTIONAL AIR OPERATIONS: SOME REGULATORY ISSUES

摘要

Integrating UAV operations into an already crowded airspace will force UAV designers, builders and operators to confront some very demanding regulatory issues. To successfully deal with these regulatory issues, UAV proponents must strive to understand the intricacies of the regulatory milieu, recognizing that remarkably high levels of safety and reliability currently enjoyed in civil aviation practice are due, in large measure, to an extensive and pervasive body of requirements that have emerged from decades of experience. While the particular business of airworthiness and certification may be described as arcane, UAV proponents will have to navigate through the relevant system of regulations, standards and advisory material. It is essential that the UAV community take advantage of the existing regulatory structure, adapting and adopting regulations and standards that are appropriate to the UAV, and avoid developing new "rules". UAVs present unique challenges for all concerned, not the least of which is the blurring of the traditional separation of vehicle design features from operational procedures. Absent any consistent set of UAV requirements, there are opportunities for creative adaptation, but those who propose solutions must be prepared to do so in terms that are understood by, and acceptable to the cognizant authorities. This presentation will review some of the features of existing regulations and standards, suggest areas in which it makes sense to build on these, and suggest alternative means to establish that UAVs can be routinely operated at risk levels that do not exceed those of current operations of conventional aircraft. An Appendix, comprising a useful Glossary of Terms, including definitions from authoritative sources, will be distributed separately.