Issues of safety and risk management for unmanned aircraft operations in urban airspace

Abstract

There is an increased demand for various commercial applications of small UAS in recent years. This rise in demand brings a corresponding increase in concerns about issues such as safety, privacy and security. Issues of safety and risk management for the use of UAS in an urban environment are higher and severe compared to those arising from their use in rural areas, this is due to the higher population density, high raised buildings, noise pollution and limitation in space etc. This paper discusses a risk based approach in the operation of small UAS in urban airspace. Issues of safety and security concerns raised by UAS operations in an urban environment as well as the mitigation and management of such risks are also discussed. Government, industries and society stand to benefit where UAS can be safely and reliably used in urban areas.