Introduction

The exponential growth of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, is rapidly transforming industries, unlocking unprecedented capabilities in logistics, inspection, agriculture, and public safety. However, as drone operations scale, particularly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and in complex urban environments, the challenge of safely integrating large numbers of diverse uncrewed aircraft into shared airspace becomes paramount. Traditional Air Traffic Management (ATM) systems, designed for manned aviation, are not inherently suited to manage the unique characteristics of drones, necessitating a new, highly automated, and distributed approach. This critical need is addressed by UAS Traffic Management (UTM) systems, which are designed to provide digital, real-time coordination, deconfliction, and situational awareness for drone operations at lower altitudes, fostering scalability and ensuring safety for all airspace users. This essential training course focuses on UAS Traffic Management (UTM) Systems, empowering professionals to understand, navigate, and contribute to the development of the next generation of airspace management.

This intensive training course provides a comprehensive and practical guide to the architecture, functionality, and regulatory landscape of UAS Traffic Management (UTM) systems. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of UTM core services, including flight planning, authorization, real-time tracking, and conflict management. We will explore the roles of various UTM stakeholders (operators, service providers, regulators) and the critical technologies underpinning these systems, such as Remote ID, detect-and-avoid (DAA), and automated data exchange protocols. By mastering the intricate details of UTM principles, operational frameworks, and regulatory compliance, you will be equipped to participate in, implement, or oversee safe, efficient, and scalable drone operations within a future integrated airspace, ensuring the continued growth and innovation of the drone industry.

Target Audience

• Drone Operators & Fleet Managers
• Aviation Regulators & Policy Makers
• Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs)
• Aerospace Engineers & Developers
• Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Planners
• Drone Service Providers (USSPs)
• Public Safety & Emergency Services personnel
• Software Developers in Aviation/UAS

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts and necessity of UAS Traffic Management (UTM).
• Differentiate UTM from traditional Air Traffic Management (ATM)
• Identify the key components and architectural elements of a UTM system.
• Learn about core UTM services: flight planning, authorization, tracking, deconfliction.
• Grasp the role of Remote ID and detect-and-avoid (DAA) technologies in UTM.
• Understand the data exchange requirements and communication protocols within UTM.
• Explore the evolving global regulatory frameworks for UTM implementation.
• Analyze the interplay between UTM and manned aviation for integrated airspace.
• Develop strategies for risk management and safety assurance in a UTM environment.
• Understand the business models and economic benefits of UTM services.
• Design a conceptual UTM operational workflow for various drone applications.

DURATION

10 Days

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to UAS Traffic Management (UTM)

• The explosive growth of drone operations and associated airspace challenges.
• Defining UTM: a new ecosystem for low-altitude drone operations.
• Why UTM is essential for scaling drone operations, especially BVLOS.
• Distinction between UTM and traditional Air Traffic Management (ATM).
• Global initiatives and key players in UTM development (e.g., FAA, EASA, NASA).

Module 2: UTM Architecture & Core Components

• Overview of distributed UTM system architecture.
• Key components: UAS Service Suppliers (USS), Flight Information Management System (FIMS).
• Data repositories and communication infrastructure.
• Ground-based infrastructure supporting UTM (e.g., sensor networks).
• The role of automation and digital services in UTM.

Module 3: Core UTM Services: Flight Planning & Authorization

• Digital flight plan submission and validation.
• Automated airspace authorization processes (e.g., LAANC).
• Geofencing and dynamic airspace constraints.
• Pre-flight risk assessment and approval workflows.
• Managing conflicting flight requests and prioritization.

Module 4: Core UTM Services: Tracking & Monitoring

• Real-time drone tracking and position reporting.
• Telemetry data ingestion and visualization.
• Conformance monitoring: ensuring drones adhere to their approved flight plans.
• Alerting mechanisms for deviations or unexpected behavior.
• Situational awareness displays for operators and authorities.

Module 5: Core UTM Services: Conflict Management & Deconfliction

• Strategic deconfliction: planning flights to avoid conflicts.
• Tactical deconfliction: real-time resolution of potential mid-air collisions.
• Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) technologies: radar, visual, acoustic, ADS-B.
• Automated evasive maneuvers and contingency plans.
• Human-in-the-loop oversight for complex scenarios.

Module 6: Remote ID & Identification in UTM

• The importance of drone identification for safety and security.
• Broadcast Remote ID vs. Network Remote ID.
• Regulatory mandates for Remote ID in various regions.
• How Remote ID data is utilized by UTM systems and authorities.
• Compliance requirements for drone operators.

Module 7: Data Exchange & Communication Protocols

• Standards for data exchange between UTM stakeholders (USS, FIMS, operators).
• APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for seamless system integration.
• Secure communication channels and data encryption.
• Information sharing requirements for airspace common operational picture.
• Challenges of interoperability between different UTM service providers.

Module 8: UTM Regulatory Frameworks & Standards

• ICAO's UTM framework and global harmonization efforts.
• National aviation authority regulations (e.g., FAA UTM ConOps, EASA U-Space).
• Industry consensus standards (e.g., ASTM F3411) for UTM.
• Certification processes for UTM service providers.
• The evolution of performance-based regulations for UTM.

Module 9: Safety Management & Risk Assessment in UTM

• Safety Management Systems (SMS) principles applied to UTM.
• Risk identification and mitigation strategies for high-density drone operations.
• Hazard analysis and safety performance indicators (SPIs).
• Incident reporting and analysis within the UTM ecosystem.
• The role of human factors in automated UTM operations.

Module 10: UTM Integration with Manned Aviation & ATM

• The interface between UTM and traditional Air Traffic Management (ATM).
• Separation management between drones and manned aircraft.
• Information sharing between UTM and ATC centers.
• Hybrid airspace concepts for seamless integration.
• Collaborative decision-making in shared airspace.

Module 11: Business Models & Economic Aspects of UTM

• Service offerings of UAS Service Suppliers (USS).
• Pricing models for UTM services.
• Market analysis and growth projections for UTM.
• Investment opportunities and funding for UTM infrastructure.
• The economic benefits of enabling scalable drone operations through UTM.

Module 12: Cybersecurity & Data Security in UTM

• Cyber threats specific to UTM systems and drone operations.
• Data integrity, confidentiality, and availability in UTM environments.
• Authentication and authorization mechanisms for system access.
• Best practices for securing drone communication and data links.
• Compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) in UTM.

Module 13: Future Trends & Advanced Concepts in UTM

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for predictive conflict resolution.
• Autonomous decision-making in UTM.
• Urban Air Mobility (UAM) integration with UTM.
• Drone Swarm Management and very high-density operations.
• The role of 5G connectivity and edge computing in future UTM deployments.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.