Warsaw, Poland, 4 June 2024—PwC’s Global Centre of Excellence in Drone and Satellite Technologies is proud to announce the launch of a new report focused on providing strategic insights for key stakeholders to thrive in the unmanned traffic management (UTM) ecosystem.
The report, from which insights were shown at the latest Airspace World conference in Geneva, introduces a transformation already well underway through drone technology—representing a fundamental shift in aviation infrastructure. Current air traffic and airspace management systems are overwhelmingly designed to manage manned aviation. The proliferation of drone operations, which the report predicts will double globally to 28 million by 2029, however, points to an urgent requirement for safe, efficient and sustainable UTM systems.
The PwC report points to the fundamental importance of a coordinated UTM approach among numerous stakeholders, including—ministries and government agencies involved in infrastructure, transportation and digital transformation, air navigation service providers (ANSPs), civil aviation authorities (CAAs), local administration units (LAUs), telecoms and drone technology service providers, as well as law enforcement and defence agencies. The safe and effective integration of drones into airspace can only be attained through strategic collaboration and open dialogue between diverse aviation and technology actors.
As part of PwC’s commitment to finding coordinated approaches to the UTM integration, we are also pleased to announce our full membership of the Global UTM Association (GUTMA), joining organisations such as Amazon, Boeing, LG, Nokia, several national aviation authorities, and many more. As the UTM report makes clear, the market’s evolution is intricately linked to the synergies between regulatory frameworks, technological advancements and market demand—with a robust demand for drone services at its core.
We see advanced air mobility (AAM), particularly drone delivery, as a key driver of this demand and the associated requirement for UTM frameworks. It is, therefore, vitally important that we work with others to look for UTM solutions that can learn from best practices around the world—but are at the same time flexible enough to be applied in unique local contexts. We look forward to engaging with our fellow GUTMA members and taking an active part in impactful discussions and works on standards and frameworks, to help foster a safe and efficient global UTM ecosystem.
Agnieszka Gajewska, Partner, Global Leader Government and Public Services, PwC Poland, commented:
“I recognise the transformative power of drone technology and I’m passionately aware of its role in reshaping our world today. Far beyond mere process optimisation and digitisation, it opens new markets and enhances public sector availability and efficiency. Drones promise not only to support agencies in fulfilling their mandates but also to contribute to life-saving and humanitarian efforts worldwide. Their potential in environmental protection and energy transition is immense. It is critical for public stakeholders to focus on orchestrating unmanned traffic to ensure safe integration of drones into our skies.”
Aleksander Buczkowski, Director, PwC Drone Powered Solutions, said:
“The Strategic Insights for Thriving in the Unmanned Traffic Management Ecosystem report is a testament to our dedication to advancing drone integration across various industries. By covering the forefront of UTM technology, we aim to illuminate the path toward an integrated drone ecosystem. This report not only addresses the challenges we face but also underscores the vast opportunities for growth and innovation within the UTM sector. Providing a comprehensive overview and forward-looking insights, our goal is to empower stakeholders worldwide to navigate the complexities of future airspace and air management.”
Michael Burns, Partner, Aviation, Transport and Infrastructure Leader, PwC Australia, also commented:
“The escalating necessity for UTM systems across the globe underscores a critical juncture for Civil Aviation Authorities and Air Navigation Service Providers. As these entities navigate the complexities introduced by drones occupying an ever-increasing expanse of our airspace, the adaptation and forward-thinking in managing the skies become paramount. This report emerges as a crucial milestone, catalysing stakeholder engagement and fostering dialogue essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges UTM presents. The collective endeavour to integrate drones into the airspace at scale demands a concerted effort—a synergy of expertise, innovation, and strategic foresight.”
Dr. Jan H. Wille, Partner, EMEA Aerospace and Defence Leader, PwC Germany said:
“The importance of a coordinated approach to the integration of drones across both civil and military sectors cannot be overstated. The complexity of safely integrating unmanned systems into our airspace demands a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including aviation regulators, airspace managers, defence agencies, technology providers, and industry innovators. Establishing clear protocols and frameworks is crucial to enable seamless cooperation between civil and military domains, ensuring that safety and operational efficiency remain paramount. The collective responsibility to develop and implement UMT systems is essential.”
The UMT report is intended to be an introduction of a series of PwC pieces on related topics such as drone delivery, air taxis and counter-drone technology to follow in the coming months.
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