Thales and Avinor Collaborate to Launch Norway’s Next-Generation Unmanned Traffic Management System

Thales and Avinor Collaborate to Launch Norway’s Next-Generation Unmanned Traffic Management System

(IN BRIEF) Thales and Avinor have partnered to implement a next-generation Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system across Norway, enabling the safe integration of unmanned and manned aircraft while adhering to European regulatory standards. Powered by Thales’ TopSky – UAS and AstraUTM, the platform offers real-time traffic management, compliance monitoring, and automated airspace integration. The system will support scalable drone operations, including Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) technologies, benefiting both civilian and governmental stakeholders. This collaboration positions Norway as a leader in advanced air mobility, fostering innovation and safety in its airspace management.

(PRESS RELEASE) LA DÉFENSE, 10-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Thales and Avinor have partnered to deliver a groundbreaking nationwide Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system for Norway, enhancing the integration of unmanned and manned aircraft while meeting stringent European regulatory standards. This strategic collaboration represents a significant step forward in airspace management, supporting Norway’s vision for scalable and safe unmanned aviation operations.

Central to this initiative is Thales’ TopSky – UAS, powered by AstraUTM, a cutting-edge platform designed for real-time traffic management, compliance monitoring, and automated airspace integration. The system will facilitate advanced capabilities such as authorisation management, continuous surveillance, automated conflict resolution, and rapid adaptability to changing airspace conditions.

The partnership marks a milestone for Thales, following its acquisition of AstraUTM, and underscores Avinor’s commitment to the development of uncrewed aviation. Avinor, as Norway’s air navigation service provider and airport operator, is tasked with ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the country’s airspace.

Ensuring Compliance and Safety in Norwegian Skies
The new UTM system will adhere to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/664 and U-space management standards, ensuring that all operations meet the highest levels of safety, transparency, and regulatory compliance. With integrated services like the Common Information Service (CIS) and U-space Service Provider (USSP) provisions, the system will offer streamlined access and predictable airspace management for drone operators and other stakeholders.

Empowering Scalable Drone Operations Nationwide
This state-of-the-art system is designed to enable large-scale, efficient Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) operations while supporting Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) technologies. By providing real-time data sharing, advanced situational awareness, and automated airspace management, the platform will benefit civilian and governmental stakeholders, ensuring safe operations in Norway’s complex and dynamic airspace.

Christian Rivierre, Vice-President of Airspace Mobility Solutions at Thales, remarked, “Partnering with Avinor to implement this nationwide UTM system demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation, safety, and regulatory alignment. With AstraUTM, we are setting the foundation for scalable and integrated air mobility solutions.”

Mats Bye Gjertsen, Vice-President of the Avinor Drone Programme, added, “This partnership with Thales reinforces Avinor’s dedication to advancing uncrewed operations in Norway. Together, we aim to deliver a system that benefits all airspace users while responsibly managing the integration of drones into our airspace.”

The deployment of this UTM system will position Norway as a leader in advanced air mobility, paving the way for the seamless coexistence of manned and unmanned aviation while supporting sustainable and innovative air transport solutions.

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SOURCE: Thales