Taking Wing

NASA, FAA, Defense and several UAV makers have teamed up for Access 5, a $360 million project to address relevant technology, policy, regulatory and infrastructure issues in four steps of increasing complexity and capability. Drones will start flying high, where traffic is light, and will be allowed to fly lower as confidence in them develops. Only the first two steps are funded.

Step 1

Altitude: Above 40,000 feet (above most commercial aircraft); ascend through restricted airspace

Deadline: September 2006

Goal: Eliminate certificate of authorization requirement; adapt FAA experimental aircraft safety rules to cover drone operator, communication and ground control

Step 2

Altitude: Between 18,000 and 40,000 feet (mixing with general air traffic); ascend through restricted airspace under FAA control

Deadline: September 2008

Goal: Establish basis for type-specific UAV safety certification

Step 3

Altitude: Near the surface to 18,000 feet (more congested airspace, more populated areas); ascend through controlled airspace using civilian airports

Deadline: N/A; not yet funded

Goal: Demonstrate see-and-avoid technology; establish basis for FAA special airworthiness certification; qualify airports to handle remotely operated aircraft

Step 4

Altitude: Near the surface to 18,000 feet; use civilian airports for all operations

Deadline: N/A; not yet funded

Goal: Refine emergency procedures; establish basis for FAA standard airworthiness certification