AUVSI Forms Task Force On Drone Incursion Mitigation

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) are forming a Blue Ribbon Task Force on the mitigation of unauthorized Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS/drone) operation at airports. According to AUVSI, the task force will be looking at ways to refine procedural practices and provide a policy framework to address airport incursions by unauthorized drones.

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) are forming a Blue Ribbon Task Force on the mitigation of unauthorized unmanned aircraft system (UAS/drone) operation at airports. According to AUVSI, the task force will be looking at ways to "refine procedural practices and provide a policy framework" to address airport incursions by unauthorized drones. The task force will begin work on May 2 and anticipates releasing findings this summer.

"UAS interfering with manned aviation is a serious issue, and it requires serious solutions. That is why we are bringing together the best and brightest minds to recommend a plan to keep our skies safe for the flying public," said AUVSI CEO Brian Wynne. "While UAS hold tremendous societal and economic benefits, occasional bad actors threaten to undermine the great progress we have made and even put responsible, legal UAS operations in a negative light."

The task force will be made up of former government officials, security professionals and aviation executives. Participants include former FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, National Air Traffic Controllers Association Executive Vice President Trish Gilbert, EVP of Operations at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Chad Makovsky, and John Pistole, former Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and former FBI Deputy Director. In addition to talking with industry experts, defense, law enforcement and government personnel, the task force say it intends to meet with National Air Space users such as UAS operators, commercial and general aviation pilots, air traffic controllers, and airline and airport leadership. They will also be taking public comments via their website.