The UK-based Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems (UAVS) association is to set up the world's first unmanned air vehicle certification company as a commercial operation under devolved responsibility arrangements now being negotiated with the UK Civil Aviation Authority, writes Peter La Franchi.
The new entity - to be known as Unmanned Systems Services (USS) - is expected to begin commercial operations midway through this year. The company will provide type certification and civil registration for UAVs weighing less than 150kg (330lb) as part of broader moves to normalise unmanned systems operations in non-segregated airspace.
The planned devolved responsibility pact with the CAA is closely modelled on similar arrangements already in place for the certification and registration of microlight aircraft by the British Microlight Aircraft Association. The company will be based at the ParcAberporth UAV centre of excellence in Wales.
According to UAVS chairman Tim Willbond, Unmanned Systems Services will be formally established by the association "in the next few weeks. The process of putting together the processes and procedures and putting the case to the CAA for their approval is under way."
Willbond says the company will pursue market opportunities in both the UK and Europe for UAVs in the below 150kg category. "The aim is to be offering services by the middle of the year." He adds that it is a "small but very important step" in opening up the civil UAV marketplace.
Longer-term planning includes pursuing type certification for heavier classes of UAV once common European certification standards are established, and supervision of civil UAV pilot training. "It is clearly an opportunity for a company like USS as part of its potential expansion."
Source: Flight International
