DGCA and EASA Join Forces for the Advancement of Unmanned Aircraft Systems

New Delhi, July 6, 2023 – In a significant move aimed at fostering cooperation in the realm of unmanned aircraft systems and innovative air mobility, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has joined hands with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This collaboration between the two regulatory bodies will facilitate the development of certification standards, environmental norms, and other related requirements pertaining to unmanned aircraft systems and innovative air mobility operations.

An official release on Wednesday highlighted the areas of cooperation between DGCA and EASA. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two authorities encompasses licensing of personnel, training, air traffic management, and infrastructure, including the establishment of Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management standards and services. This strategic partnership expects to enhance safety and efficiency in the rapidly evolving field of unmanned aviation.

This latest development builds upon the earlier groundwork laid down in April when both regulators signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to collaborate in the areas of unmanned aircraft systems and innovative air mobility. The subsequent MoU reinforces and expands their commitment to mutual cooperation and information sharing.

The key objective of this collaboration is to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and technological advancements in the unmanned aviation sector. Through regular information sharing, DGCA and EASA aim to stay abreast of the latest developments and research in the field, enabling them to align their standards and regulations effectively. This harmonization of standards is expected to propel the growth of the Indian unmanned aviation sector and contribute to the overall advancement of the industry.

DGCA and EASA

Unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones, have gained significant prominence in recent years due to their diverse applications in sectors such as logistics, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and emergency services. The exponential growth of this industry necessitates the formulation of robust regulatory frameworks to ensure safe and responsible operations.

By collaborating with EASA, which is renowned for its expertise in aviation safety and regulation, DGCA aims to leverage international best practices and experiences in developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for unmanned aircraft systems and innovative air mobility. This partnership will enable both regulators to learn from each other’s experiences and facilitate the implementation of effective safety measures, training programs, and infrastructure development.

The cooperation between DGCA and EASA also highlights the global nature of the unmanned aviation sector. As technological advancements continue to reshape the aviation landscape, international collaboration and harmonization of standards become imperative. By joining forces, DGCA and EASA demonstrate their commitment to fostering a global ecosystem that promotes the safe and also sustainable integration of unmanned aircraft systems.

With the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in place, DGCA and EASA have positioned themselves to embark on a journey of joint exploration, innovation, and knowledge exchange. This partnership is a testament to the progressive approach adopted by the regulatory bodies, also as they work together to unleash the full potential of unmanned aircraft systems and innovative air mobility.

As the unmanned aviation sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace, collaborations of this nature serve as a stepping stone towards a future where unmanned aircraft systems play a vital role in various industries while adhering to the highest safety standards.

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