Preparing Air Traffic Controllers for a Drone-Integrated Future

The rapid expansion of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, is reshaping air traffic control in the United States.

With Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations evolving and drone technology expanding, understanding how air traffic controllers can safely manage uncrewed aircraft alongside traditional aircraft in the national airspace system is critical.

➡️ The news:

• University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Aviation Institute Associate Professor Chenyu “Victor” Huang, Ph.D., has landed a $174,000 U.S. Department of Transportation-Federal Aviation Administration grant that will help pave the way for safer skies.

• Huang’s project will initiate critical research on air traffic control human performance and technical training under the impact of emerging UAS technology and prepares the ATC workforce for safe UAS integration into the national airspace system.

💡 Why it matters:

• Drones are everywhere: From airport operations to beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) flights, drones are becoming essential tools in various industries, interacting with traditional aviation systems.

• FAA is adapting: To meet growing demand, the FAA is expanding regulations, including rules for night flights, new operation categories, and safer integration of drones into airspace.

• Tech innovations lead the way: Tools like remote ID, counter-UAS systems, and low-altitude notification technology (LAANC) are being developed to ensure safe and secure drone operations.

📈 A booming industry: According to the International Civil Aviation Organization, the global market for transport and logistics supported by UAS is expected to grow from $11 billion in 2022 to $29 billion by 2027. The number of UAS produced is forecasted to grow from 2 million units in 2021 to 6.5 million in 2030.

✈️ Prepared for takeoff: Huang’s work seeks to accomplish four goals:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of how air traffic controllers perceive the challenges of UAS integration for ATC operations.

• Discover possible knowledge gaps on UAS operations in the ATC workforce.

• Identify technical training needs for the ATC workforce under the impact of UAS integration.

• Explore technical training frameworks to address the challenges better.

🎤 What they’re saying: "As a leader in aviation education and research, the UNO Aviation Institute has a responsibility to stay ahead of emerging challenges and opportunities in our field. By embracing innovation and conducting impactful studies, we ensure that our students, industry partners, and the broader aviation community are prepared for the future of flight," Huang said.

🔎 Zoom in: The Aviation Institute, housed within UNO’s College of Public Affairs and Community Service, was founded with support from Omaha’s civic and business leaders including Charles Durham, Walter Scott, and Mike Harper. Don Smithey, former Executive Director of the Omaha Airport Authority, spearheaded the effort by working with Otto Bauer and John Faar of UNO’s administration to establish the Institute in 1990. The Institute now offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation with concentrations in Air Transport Administration, Professional Flight, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations.