The Future of the UAS

9.4 - Blog:

In closing out the last of nine weeks of study in ERAUs-WW, Masters of Science, ASCI 637 Unmanned Systems Operations and Payload course, this blog was created to discuss an article centered on the future of unmanned aerial systems and where UAS technology is going to advance in the next five to ten years. It was also required to include aspects regarding new or modifying current regulations to aid in the implementation of the unmanned aerial systems into the national airspace. The article could be no more than 12 months old. Here is my perspective, with no article for support.

If UAS Integration into the NAS were classified as a “can of worms," then the analogy that it keeps getting kicked down the road or into the future wouldn’t be too farfetched. Articles, journals, books, online media and classrooms alike, are filled with hyperbole on where UAS technology will be five to ten years down the road.

The truth of the matter is; UAS and the technology that drives them are already here, in all their glory. From systems <55 lbs. to those equivalent in size to a Boeing 737, UAS operated by both public and civil sectors are ready to inundate the NAS with all their sensory platforms, human factor studies, manufacturing advancements and operator training/skill sets. Unfortunately, the technology arrived at such an expeditious rate that no crystal ball could prepare those that regulate the NAS and the aircraft that fly safely in it, with the ability to create the requisite guidance and regulations to allow for safe and unfettered access to it. Driven by DoD needs and applications, regulators worldwide failed to comprehend the quickness with which UAS technology evolved and was embraced by the civilian populace. As technology was quickly developed, implemented and proven for DoD/Public operations (albeit on a much larger scale), the civil sector drove hard to miniaturize the DoD’s proven technology for their own commercial applications. That was five to ten years if not more, “cans down the road” ago. Aside from the soon to be released Part 107-Operation and Certification of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems rule, “Today” is where UAS technology is, those that wish to integrate the NAS only have to wait for the regulators to catch up, perhaps another five to ten years in the future.

On a day-to-day basis I am constantly aware of the adage, “you don’t know what you don’t know." Unfortunately, with that adage being all to true, it will only be after UAS have integrated into the NAS and technologies and regulations perceived to be the answer, fail. Only then will new and improved regulations and supporting technology be developed to ensure the NAS remains safe for all those that operate in it.