#TrustinDrones - ARPAS UK

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DfT seeks aviation ambassadors for 2024

The Department for Transport is looking for 10 Aviation Ambassadors for 2024. The DfT ambassadors will work to raise the profile of the aviation industry, help develop and deliver outreach programmes and to improve career pathways.

It’s a voluntary role, although expenses are available for some activities. You’ll be expected to attend four board meetings, an induction day and to spend roughly three hours per month working as an ambassador. A great opportunity for our next generation.

In order to be one of the chosen 10, the DfT want you to be predominantly in the UK for the next two years, to be able to pass a baseline security check and not to have served for two years in the role.

Highlighting Keith Bennett, a prominent figure in the drone industry, who has been an excellent ambassador for 2023. Keith’s background in the drone industry exemplifies the diverse perspectives that make the role of an ambassador even more valuable. ARPAS-UK encourages the participation of individuals within the drone industry to engage and advocate for the integration of drones within the broader aviation sphere.

Applications close on September 8th

More information and links to the application form can be found here.

SAM IS ....

Enhance Your Skills and Unlock Opportunities with ECITB’s Foundation Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Training Course

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, have revolutionised various industries with their versatile applications. To tap into this transformative potential and ensure safe and efficient operations on industrial sites, the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) offers a comprehensive Foundation UAS training course.

Mastering Drone Operations Safely and Effectively

The ECITB’s Foundation UAS training course provides participants with a profound understanding of drone functionality and operations within industrial environments. Designed to cater to a diverse audience, including existing employees, UAS pilots, aspiring drone professionals, and managers, the course equips individuals with valuable knowledge and skills that align with industry standards.

What Does the Course Cover?

Spanning five days, the course encompasses a range of topics crucial for drone operations on industrial sites. Participants learn to adhere to site policies and procedures while conducting safe drone flights. The practical flight competence test, a pivotal aspect of the course, evaluates participants’ ability to pilot drones in real-world scenarios. This test involves capturing, storing, and sharing viable images while complying with data protection regulations.

Furthermore, the course includes a quality-assured assessment that maintains consistency across all training providers. This standardized approach ensures the transferability of acquired skills and competence among operatives.

Who Can Benefit from This Training Course?

The ECITB’s Foundation UAS training course caters to diverse groups:

Existing Employees: Those looking to enhance their skills in operating UAS for their employers or boost their employability prospects.
UAS Pilots: Professionals seeking to provide services on industrial sites can further refine their skills and knowledge through this course.
Aspiring Professionals: Individuals interested in pursuing a career or business in the field of UAS gain valuable insights.
Managers: Managers looking to efficiently oversee contractors and operations on-site benefit from understanding drone operations.

Realising the Potential of Skilled Drone Operatives

The industrial sector’s increasing integration of UAS has brought about substantial benefits, including enhanced safety, improved efficiency, and significant cost savings. Industries like oil and gas have harnessed drones to mitigate work-at-height risks and navigate hazardous environments, ensuring worker safety.

The fusion of drone technology with traditional methods has led to safer and more efficient asset inspections. Drones offer cost-effective solutions for mapping construction sites, monitoring project progress, and obtaining precise survey data. With the ability to provide unparalleled accuracy and detailed datasets, drones are reshaping industrial practices.

Find out more by clicking here

Link: https://www.ecitb.org.uk/qualifications-and-training/foundation-unmanned-aircraft-systems-uas-training-course/

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Unlocking Future Potential Survey: UK RAF and Industry Collaborate on Low Cost UAS Investment for Defence and Commercial Sectors

In light of the significant and effective use of low cost Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) in the current Ukraine conflict, which includes commercial off the shelf (COTS) systems, the RAF Rapid Capability Office (RCO) is seeking objective evidence to support future low cost UAS plans and investment for the UK. It is seeking input from organisations in both civil/commercial and defence sectors and has requested the UK Defence Solutions Centre (UKDSC) to explore the alignment between (i) potential MOD capability requirements, (ii) UK industrial and academic capability and capacity and (iii) export / international collaboration opportunities for priority capabilities.

The assessment will take the form of a survey and a selection of bilateral meetings between survey respondents and the RAF and UKDSC. It aims to identify relevant capability and capacity in the defence and civil/commercial sectors. The output is intended to provide a coherent and holistic view covering platforms, technologies, components, subsystems, operation, etc.

The survey may be accessed via the link below, and will be open until 31 August. If there are any questions or issues with completing the survey, please contact [email protected]. All responses will be collated and anonymised. As a thank you, a copy of the output will be available to all participants following publication. In addition, a selection of organisations completing the survey may also be invited to bilateral discussions with the RAF RCO.

Survey link: https://survey.ukdsc.org/index.php/513416?lang=en

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Exploring Emerging Technologies: NPCC’s Market Engagement for Sub 25kg UAS and Associated Equipment

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) wants to extend its technological horizons. This involves a strategic market engagement initiative, focusing on sub 25kg Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and associated equipment. This forward-looking approach aims to harness the potential of emerging technologies to bolster law enforcement efforts.

Technical Details and Submissions
Interested parties should respond to the market engagement by the deadline of August 8, 2024, at 00:00 (UK time). The engagement pertains to the acquisition of supplies, with Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV) codes indicating the relevance to security, defense equipment, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Submissions are expected to be made electronically via the EU Supply portal, streamlining the process for all parties.

Read more:
Public quote/tender – NPCC Market Engagement market in relation to sub 25kg Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and associated equipment (eu-supply.com)

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CAA’s Call for Input: Shaping the Future of UK UAS Regulations

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has taken a proactive step towards enhancing the regulation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the United Kingdom. In its recent announcement, stakeholders are invited to contribute their insights and perspectives in the ongoing effort to improve and streamline UAS regulations. This Call for Input represents a significant opportunity for the UAS industry and related stakeholders to actively shape the future of drone operations in the UK. The deadline for input is the 7th of September 2023.

Click Here

Stakeholders are encouraged to actively participate in the policy-making process by sharing their insights through the provided Online Response Form. This engagement is essential as it enables the CAA to consider a broad spectrum of viewpoints before finalizing its proposals. By inviting input from those directly involved in UAS operations, the CAA aims to create regulations that are not only effective but also practical and adaptable to the evolving UAS landscape.

Conclusion

As the deadline for feedback approaches on 7th September 2023, now is the time for stakeholders to make their voices heard and contribute to a brighter and more dynamic future for the UK’s UAS industry.

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Soliciting Drone Safety Feedback: Your Valuable Insights Needed

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) requests the valued input of the drone and model aircraft community on two essential publications:

As the RPAS industry grows, understanding potential behaviours and reactions as remote pilots becomes crucial. Human error accounts for over 30% of reported loss of control (LOC) events, emphasising the need for vigilance.

Maintaining safety demands diligent pre-flight checks, prudent battery management, and heightened situational awareness. Share your perspectives via the Online Survey to contribute to drone safety.

Click here to access the survey

Mohammed Hasan

SAM IS ....

CAP2555: Guidance on the Carriage of Dangerous Goods as Cargo for UAS/RPAS Operators in the Specific Category

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced the issuance of CAP2555, providing comprehensive guidance on the carriage of dangerous goods (DG) for UAS/RPAS Operations in the Specific Category. The document was published on 27th July 2023.

This document has been developed to ensure the safe transport of dangerous goods when operating Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). It is applicable to RPAS operators in the Specific Category, both those with approval to carry DG and those without approval.

As part of the initiative, the CAA has made available two Manual Templates on its website:

These templates have been designed to facilitate streamlined procedures, adherence to safety standards, and promotion of responsible drone operations.

Operators of RPAS in the UK should note that the Application for Approval to Transport Dangerous Goods by Air (SRG2807) now extends to include RPAS operators. As such, all RPAS operators must comply with the guidelines outlined in CAP2555 during their operations.

It is important to highlight that the guidance material aligns with UK law, and any references to EU regulations or websites in this document are not applicable after the UK-EU transition.

Drone operators are encouraged to download the CAP2555 document in PDF format from the CAA website.

The CAA urges all RPAS operators to prioritise safety and responsibility while conducting operations. CAP2555 and the accompanying manual templates serve as invaluable resources to ensure the meticulous handling and transportation of dangerous goods in the drone industry.

Read more on the CAA website here.

Let us collectively endeavour to maintain the safety of the skies for the benefit of all and foster responsible drone operations.

Mohammed Hasan

SAM IS ....

NATS on 26th July: Airspace Modernisation: Transforming the Skies

Airspace, the invisible motorways in the sky, forms the backbone of the entire aviation industry. Facilitating the safe operation of tens of thousands of flights daily, this critical infrastructure is relied upon 24/7 to bolster the UK’s global connections. However, with its roots dating back to the 1950s, the current airspace structure struggles to accommodate the advanced capabilities of modern aircraft and often compels them to fly less direct routes, leading to unnecessary fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The Urgent Need for Airspace Modernisation

The aviation industry faces a pressing challenge to reduce its environmental impact amidst the ongoing climate crisis. Modernising airspace emerges as a vital solution to address this issue, offering a simpler, safer, and more fuel-efficient future for air travel. By optimising flight paths and leveraging advanced technologies, today’s aircraft can fly more direct routes and execute quicker climbs and continuous descents, thereby minimizing carbon emissions and contributing to the decarbonisation of the aviation sector.

Complexity and Benefits of Airspace Modernisation

Revamping airspace is undoubtedly a complex endeavour, but its rewards are significant. The process will streamline air travel, enhance safety, and foster environmental sustainability. Notably, modern aircraft will be able to fully utilise their advanced capabilities, ensuring more efficient and eco-friendly operations.

Experience of NATS: Delivering the UK’s Largest Airspace Changes

NATS, the UK’s leading air navigation service provider, has been at the forefront of delivering the country’s most significant airspace changes. Drawing from their expertise, this episode of Altitude delves into their experiences, exploring the tools and technologies employed during the modernisation process.

Challenges and Collaborative Efforts

Transforming some of the world’s busiest airspace presents numerous challenges that require careful planning and execution. However, with insights from key industry stakeholders, including aviation authorities and airlines, the episode sheds light on the collaborative nature of airspace modernisation. Working together becomes the cornerstone of progress, ensuring that all stakeholders’ perspectives are considered to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Join NATS Altitude for Insightful Discussions

Click here to be part of the conversation on Wednesday, 26 July, at 15:00 UK time, as panel experts delve into the crucial topic of airspace modernisation and its pivotal role in combatting the climate crisis. Tune in to learn how this transformation is set to shape the aviation industry’s sustainable future, making air travel greener and more efficient.

Together, let’s explore the path to a safer, cleaner, and more interconnected aviation landscape through airspace modernisation.

Airspace Modernisation: Transforming The Skies (on24.com)

Mohammed Hasan

SAM IS ....

Unlocking the Future of Travel: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) UK Economic Impact Study by PwC

The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) UK Economic Impact Study is a comprehensive report published by PwC. They are widely recognised for their expertise in conducting in-depth research and providing strategic insights across various industries. The study aims to assess the viability and potential of AAM in the United Kingdom by analysing its socioeconomic impact, comparing it to existing transportation options, and identifying the challenges and opportunities associated with its adoption. Leveraging their extensive knowledge and experience, PwC presents a detailed examination of the economic modelling approach and key findings, shedding light on the transformative possibilities that AAM can bring to the UK’s travel landscape.

Key takeaways:

AAM has the potential to generate an annual socioeconomic benefit of £2.1 billion for the UK economy.
It could also generate £297 million in annual fares, opening up new opportunities for businesses and passengers.
AAM’s environmental impact is remarkable, with the potential to reduce annual emissions by 222 million tons of CO2e, equivalent to taking 120,000 diesel cars off the road.

For further information, read on…

July 18, 2023

Mohammed Hasan

SAM IS ....

Future Flight: Securing Investment and Showcasing Your Business- August 3rd

Securing investment in the rapidly evolving field of Future Flight is a crucial aspect for businesses aiming to drive innovation and growth. To shed light on effective strategies for showcasing your business and attracting investment, Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) is hosting a webinar titled “Future Flight: Securing Investment and Showcasing Your Business.”

Taking place on Thursday, August 3, this webinar offers a unique opportunity to hear from prominent investors who have deployed capital into companies operating within the Future Flight space. Participants will gain valuable insights into the criteria and expectations of private finance providers and learn how to effectively present their business opportunities for securing investment

Follow the link to find out more:

https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/events/future-flight-securing-investment-and-scaling-sustainably-webinar/