Thales and Avinor, Norway’s air navigation service provider and airport operator, have announced a strategic partnership to launch a cutting-edge nationwide drone traffic management system. This initiative represents a significant advancement in airspace management for Norway, merging technological innovation with stringent regulatory compliance. The collaboration also marks a milestone for Thales as it integrates AstraUTM, a newly acquired, advanced UTM (Unmanned Traffic Management) software developer.
With the introduction of TopSky-UAS powered by AstraUTM, Thales will deliver a secure, scalable digital platform designed for automated UTM and future Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). This state-of-the-art system will oversee air traffic across airports, metropolitan areas, suburbs, and regions, offering real-time compliance monitoring, authorization management, continuous airspace surveillance, automatic conflict resolution, and dynamic response capabilities.
Enhancing Safety and Compliance in Norwegian Airspace
The new UTM system, developed in partnership with Avinor, aims to serve a diverse range of stakeholders, including drone operators, air traffic service providers (ATSPs), government agencies, and other key players in low-altitude airspace management. It adheres to the regulatory framework established by Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/664 and its associated guidance materials, ensuring the highest levels of safety and operational transparency.
The system will seamlessly integrate essential services such as the Common Information Service (CIS) and UAS Service Provider (USSP) configurations, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements for designated UAS airspace.
Driving Efficient Drone Operations Nationwide
By establishing a comprehensive UTM system, Norway will benefit from a robust solution tailored to meet the needs of both civil and governmental stakeholders. This advanced system will facilitate real-time data sharing, streamline automated airspace access, and enhance situational awareness. It will enable operators of manned and unmanned aircraft to operate safely and efficiently within Norway’s increasingly busy airspace.
This collaboration between Thales and Avinor underscores Norway’s commitment to innovation and safety in airspace management, setting a benchmark for the global adoption of advanced drone traffic management systems.