U-AGREE cards to clarify UAS operational risks

The U-AGREE project is developing advanced risk models that link uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operations to potential hazards, while also accounting for societal acceptance. In fact, to promote a shared understanding of the challenges ahead, the project has just introduced a set of four risk awareness cards. These cards present the main risk categories addressed by the project and underline the gaps that advanced modelling approaches and U-space services are designed to bridge.

Understanding risks in U-space

The four cards focus on the following interconnected risk areas:

Mid-air collision risk

Mid-air collisions encompass multiple scenarios: UAS-to-UAS encounters, interactions between unmanned and manned aircraft, and even collisions with wildlife. These events can occur en-route or during critical phases such as take-off and landing and strongly depend on local traffic patterns and are affected by operational conditions such as weather and CNS performance. Beyond the immediate airborne hazard, mid-air incidents can have serious consequences on the ground.

Ground risk

Ground risk is not static. It depends not only on the type of area being overflown-such as sparsely populated zones or locations with assemblies of people-but also on time. A place that is empty at one moment may be crowded at another, significantly changing the level of risk. U-AGREE's approach recognises this dynamic nature, enabling more accurate and context-aware assessments that reflect real operational conditions.

Environmental impact

Aviation is one of the fastest-growing contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and UAS operations must be assessed within this broader context. While drones benefit from electric propulsion, low-level noise emissions and limited visual impact, environmental considerations remain central to public acceptance. By reducing congestion and enabling more efficient operations, UAS-when properly integrated-can support long-term environmental sustainability. U-AGREE aims to quantify and incorporate these effects into risk-informed decision-making.

Security and privacy risks

UAS operations face significant security challenges, including vulnerability to cyberattacks and the potential misuse of drones for criminal activities. In addition, the widespread use of onboard cameras raises serious concerns around privacy, data protection, and the lawful collection and use of personal data. Addressing these risks is essential not only for compliance with European regulations, but also for maintaining public trust.

Joint creation and specialist evaluation of U-AGREE risk cards

Led by the Universitat Politècnica de València, the U-AGREE consortium brings together a diverse and highly qualified group of stakeholders from the U-space community, contributing substantial expertise and proven experience. The risk cards were developed through a collaborative process involving all project partners, who provided input on the technical concepts underlying each risk area, while the graphic design was curated by the EuroUSC Italia design team. Following the preparation of the initial drafts, the U-AGREE Advisory Board conducted a comprehensive review during interactive, in-person sessions held at the Plenary Meeting in Rome in May 2025.

This strong collaborative effort, combined with the insights of the Advisory Board (composed of leading experts in U-space, aviation safety, regulation, and innovation) provided valuable perspectives that enhanced both the technical robustness of the cards and their practical relevance for real-world U-space operations.

Building trust in the future of U-space

Without widespread public trust and support, even the most advanced technical solutions may face resistance or limited adoption. Engaging communities, addressing their concerns transparently, and demonstrating tangible benefits are essential to foster confidence and ensure the long-term viability of unmanned aviation. The launch of these cards marks an important step in engaging both professionals and the wider public, by making complex risk concepts accessible and transparent. Indeed, their purposes are:

• Raise awareness of the gaps in current risk assessment approaches;
• Clearly communicate how the U-AGREE project addresses these gaps through advanced risk models;
• Support the airspace risk assessments required by European regulation;
• Improve the SORA process, making it simpler and more effective.
• Promote social acceptance by transparently addressing safety, security, privacy and environmental concerns.

Safer skies are not achieved by technology alone. They are built on trust, knowledge, and responsible integration. Through these risk awareness cards, U-AGREE invites stakeholders across the U-space ecosystem to engage with the challenges and solutions of unmanned aviation in Europe.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The U-AGREE project is coordinated by Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) and supported by a powerhouse consortium of leading stakeholders in air traffic management and drone innovation, including: CRIDA, Collins Aerospace, Cranfield University, DLR (German Aerospace Center), ENAIRE, ENGAGE, EUROCONTROL, EuroUSC Italia, INECO.

The project has received funding from the SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking under grant agreement No 101167187 under European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme.

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