SESAR projects supporting urban air mobility and drone traffic management had a chance to showcase their work to members of the European Parliament from 19-23 February.

Organised by CANSO Europe with the support of European Parliament MEP Vice-President Jan-Christoph Oetjen, the exhibition demonstrated the collaborative efforts to ensure the safe and secure integration of drones and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into European airspace. The exhibition allowed for stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders to exchange on the potential of aircraft and implications for airspace management.

Speaking about the exhibition, European Parliament Vice-President Mr Oetjen said: “The EU drone eco-system must closely work together to unfold the sector’s full potential. The Drone Strategy 2.0 is a good basis, but we need more efforts from the EU Member States in its implementation and harmonised solutions that do not undermine drone operations at borders. Sufficient funding in the future is a priority to ensure scaling-up of the market and development of the technology. A European drone label could create more trust and acceptance amongst users when operating.”

Tanja Grobotek, Manager Europe Affairs at CANSO, said: “This exhibition represents a unique opportunity to engage in dialogue, foster collaboration, and drive innovation. The air traffic management industry will support the integration of these exciting new technologies into our airspace and chart a course towards a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future of aviation.”

Through their research and innovation, SESAR JU partners are demonstrating the everyday benefits that drones, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and eVTOL are bringing to Europe.