By Amit Ganjoo, Founder and CEO of ANRA Technologies
As the global drone industry grows and evolves, managing airspace for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) has become a key priority. In Europe, this effort is encapsulated in U-space, a set of services designed to ensure the safe, secure, and efficient integration of drones into shared airspace. Managed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and National Aviation Authorities (NAAs), U-space offers a framework for providing airspace services—much like air traffic management (ATM) for manned aviation but tailored specifically to unmanned operations.
U-space aims to open up new possibilities for autonomous drone operations by implementing a digital infrastructure that supports communication, situational awareness, and traffic management. This ecosystem not only enables routine Beyond Visual Line-of–Site (BVLOS) drone operations but also lays the groundwork for more complex use cases, such as Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) and autonomous cargo deliveries, allowing for drones to operate safely alongside traditional aircraft.
To maintain the safety and integrity of U-space, EASA and the NAAs have developed a process to certify U-space Service Providers (USSPs). These USSP entities are tasked with delivering essential services, such as geo-awareness and flight authorisation, and disseminating dynamic airspace reconfigurations, all of which are necessary for drone operators to fly safely. USSP certification is a rigorous process involving multiple evaluation stages to ensure that USSPs meet the required operational, safety, and cybersecurity standards.
For ANRA Technologies, the journey toward becoming a certified USSP began over a year ago. Now in the 16th month of the certification process with EASA, ANRA is well-positioned to be the first company to receive official USSP status from EASA. This milestone showcases ANRA’s ongoing commitment to safety, innovation, and compliance. By achieving USSP certification, we are not just gaining a competitive edge—we are contributing to the advancement of global drone integration efforts.
As the certification process progresses, ANRA is continuously enhancing its platform to align with evolving regulatory requirements, ensuring that we provide the best possible services for drone operators across Europe. The certification of USSPs is a critical step in realizing the full potential of U-space. With the backing of EASA and NAAs, certified providers like ANRA are helping to build a more connected and secure airspace for all. This marks a significant leap forward integrating drones into our skies and opens the door to a new era of innovation and opportunity in the UAS ecosystem.
EASA vs. NAA Certification
There are two main pathways for USSP certification – one through EASA and the other through an individual NAA. The choice between EASA or NAA is determined by the principal place of business of the entity being certified. If it happens to be an EU state, then that state should certify the USSP, or the state can request EASA to do it. If the principal place of business of the entity is outside the EU, then EASA has to conduct the USSP certification.
- EASA Certification. When a USSP is certified by EASA, the certification applies across all EU member states. This means that once EASA has granted certification, the provider can offer U-space services in any EU Member State after a dedicated onboarding process to include any required adaptation and unique adjustments for that particular Member State. EASA’s certification ensures uniform standards and eliminates the need for multiple applications, reducing administrative burdens for companies like ANRA that aim to scale operations across Europe.
- NAA Certification. A National Aviation Authority (NAA) certification, on the other hand, is granted by the aviation authority of a specific country, such as France’s DGAC or Germany’s LBA. While this certification is also based on EU regulations, it is typically recognized within the issuing Member State. However, thanks to mutual recognition principles under EASA’s regulatory framework, a certification from one NAA can be used in other Member States, though additional steps may be required.
The Importance of USSP Certification, a Strategic Business Advantage
USSP certification is far more than a compliance obligation; it is a strategic business tool that offers significant advantages to companies operating in the drone industry. Achieving EASA certification not only provides access to the entire EU market but also serves as a benchmark for other global markets looking to establish their own drone airspace management systems. EASA’s certification ensures that U-space services are consistent across all EU member states, allowing providers like ANRA Technologies to scale operations seamlessly across borders in coordination with NAA’s. Similarly, adopting a U-space approach would benefit markets that envision transborder operations in a region such as the UAE, reducing administrative burdens, accelerating time to market and lowering costs while enhancing the operational footprint across various sectors like logistics, infrastructure, and urban air mobility.
Certification also enhances operational efficiency and fosters innovation by ensuring that certified USSPs meet stringent standards. These requirements ensure safe and secure drone operations and prepare companies to manage complex, high-density operations at scale. As drone use cases expand to include autonomous deliveries and IAM (or AAM), having a certified, robust system in place becomes a critical differentiator. By investing in the certification process, companies like ANRA are future-proofing their technology, positioning themselves for leadership in a rapidly evolving market.
Beyond operational benefits, certification builds trust among stakeholders, including regulators, business partners, and customers. In industries where safety and reliability are paramount, such as energy, logistics, and public safety, certification signals that a USSP has met (or exceeded) the highest operational and security standards. This is crucial for securing contracts and fostering partnerships as stakeholders increasingly demand compliance with recognized regulatory frameworks. Certification also mitigates legal and compliance risks, offering further business stability.
One of the most significant global implications of EASA certification is its potential to influence regulatory bodies outside of Europe. As non-European markets seek to establish their own U-space systems or similar frameworks, many look to EASA’s proven certification process as a model. Companies certified by EASA can help pave the way for regulators in other regions to adopt or adapt these frameworks for their respective markets. This creates opportunities for EASA-certified USSPs to enter new regions with a recognized and proven safety model, facilitating transborder operations and further accelerating the global integration of unmanned aerial systems into the airspace.
Global applicability: aviation fundamentals at the core
The requirements for USSP certification emphasize key aviation principles such as Safety Management Systems (SMS) and Cyber Assurance, which are essential for compliance in Europe and serve as a strong foundation for drone operations globally.
An SMS is a cornerstone of traditional aviation that applies directly to drone operations in U-space. It establishes a structured approach to identifying and managing risks, ensuring safe flight operations. SMS frameworks are integral components of aviation regulations globally, as outlined by organizations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The lessons and requirements from the USSP certification process can be adapted and applied to markets outside Europe, which ensures that global drone operators can safely integrate into airspace in any region.
The digital nature of U-space demands a high level of cybersecurity to safeguard communication networks, protect operational data, and prevent malicious interference. EASA’s stringent standards for cyber assurance are in line with global best practices, meaning these security protocols are transferable to other aviation markets. Whether in the U.S., Asia, or other regions, the importance of cyber resilience in airspace management systems is universal, providing confidence that drone operations are secure and reliable.
In conclusion, pursuing U-space Service Provider (USSP) certification represents a critical step toward the future maturity of unmanned aviation. As U-space systems evolve, they pave the way for safer, more efficient, and scalable drone operations across various industries, from logistics to urban air mobility. The rigorous certification process not only ensures high standards for safety and cybersecurity but also fosters global interoperability, enabling seamless cross-border operations. As more companies achieve USSP certification, the industry is set to move toward a more connected and resilient airspace ecosystem, accelerating the integration of unmanned aerial systems into mainstream aviation and unlocking new possibilities for innovation and growth worldwide.
