INDUSTRIA AERONÁUTICA

Drones a increasing challenge for airspace users, says IATA

The use of drones (remotely piloted aircraft systems) is forecast to grow exponentially and is posing an increasing challenge for users of the airspace, according to Gilberto Lopez Meyer, senior vice-president for safety and flight operations at the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

"Drones are increasingly being used in environmental and fishery operations, disaster response, firefighting and many other civic and commercial activities," Meyer said last week at Iata"™s Global Media Day.

In addition there is a significant increase in the use of drones for recreational purposes. It is estimated that in the US alone about 700 000 to a million drones will be sold during the current holiday season.

"The rise in the popularity of drones has coincided with a huge increase in reports of drones operating dangerously close to manned aircraft and airports," warned Meyer.

The greatest number of near collision reports were in North America and Iata data analysis show the risk of drone collision with aircraft exists at all altitudes and locations. The largest number of small drone encounters occurred below 1 500m, while there have been 18 large drone encounters reported across all altitudes, with the majority having been above 1 500m.

Iata is continuing to work with key aviation partners to increase public awareness to ensure the safe flying of drones.

"In order to deter misuse, there should be strictly enforced legal and/or administrative sanctions focusing drones in an unsafe or dangerous manner, especially near airports or commercial aircraft," said Meyer…

Compartir noticia:
ANUNCIOS
SÍGUENOS
Biblioteca Virtual