Issues Concerning Integration of Unmanned
Aerial Vehicles in Civil Airspace
December 2004
Matthew T. DeGarmo, The MITRE Corporation
ABSTRACT
Interest in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is growing worldwide and several efforts are
underway to integrate UAV operations routinely and safely into civil airspace. Currently,
UAV operations are confined to special-use airspace or are limited in their access, for safety
reasons, by a restrictive authorization process. This document provides a context of UAV
developments, describes current initiatives, and frames and assesses the issues associated
with the integration of UAVs in civil airspace. Reviewed are issues related to potential
safety, security, air traffic, regulatory, and socio-economic impediments. The paper
concludes with recommended actions for moving forward. The intent in describing the
issues and proposing recommendations is not to suggest a conclusive set of issues nor to
provide a prescriptive direction, but rather to stimulate discussion, build consensus, and
promote strategic planning among the organizations having a stake in the emergence of
UAVs into civil airspace.
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