ICAO Sets New Standards for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, Aiming to Enhance Global Air Safety

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has implemented new aviation standards and practices designed to boost safety and facilitate the integration of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) into the global air navigation system. These changes, part of broader efforts to update international aviation rules, were solidified during ICAO’s 231st Session.

The modifications include amendments to 15 of the 19 annexes to the convention on international civil aviation. A significant addition is the new part IV on international operations for remotely piloted aircraft systems in Annex 6, which outlines operational guidelines for RPAS. This sets foundational regulations for the international operation of RPAS, marking a pivotal step towards their broader integration into civil aviation.

Under the new framework, RPAS operators will need a specific operator certificate (ROC), similar to the air operator certificate (AOC) required for manned aircraft. This regulatory structure builds on previously agreed elements such as the issuance of remote pilot licenses, RPAS-specific airworthiness requirements, and communication link protocols.

ICAO’s adoption of these standards aligns with its vision for a performance-driven, service-oriented global air navigation system. “The sustainable development of aviation worldwide requires advanced global air navigation systems that are robust and flexible,” stated Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the ICAO Council.

Further enhancements include the introduction of system-wide information services to improve the accuracy and security of data exchanges across aviation networks. This is expected to reduce the risk of inaccurate or incomplete flight information reaching air traffic management providers, thus optimizing air route and network efficiency and potentially reducing CO2 emissions.

The “flight and flow — information for a collaborative environment” (FF-ICE) concept is another major advancement. This initiative aims to foster a collaborative environment where flight trajectories can be shared and optimized at every flight stage, allowing for phased implementation across various operational needs and geographic regions.

Additionally, ICAO has addressed the safety risks associated with aircraft having identical 24-bit addresses, which can lead to surveillance errors. New standards for helicopter chart development for performance-based navigation have also been introduced to enhance the safety of helicopter operations.

The council has expanded the scope of the flight data analysis programme (FDAP) to include most large commercial air transport aeroplanes, enhancing the industry’s ability to identify safety risks proactively. Moreover, new investigation standards will ensure that accident investigation authorities keep the public better informed about their progress and share final reports in electronic formats for easier access and analysis.

These comprehensive updates by ICAO not only aim to integrate cutting-edge technologies like RPAS into civil aviation but also strengthen the overall safety and efficiency of the aviation sector globally.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, internationalairportreview.com