Air-Take-Off: Collision avoidance between drones and manned aviation with the application case of air take-off in the Lausitz region

Kofinanziert von der Europäischen Union und dem Freistaat Sachsen

Client: Part of the EFRE/JTF - Research and Development - Project Funding 2021 to 2027
Duration: 06/2024 - 06/2026

Project information

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) offer new opportunities in data transmission, cargo transport, and potentially passenger mobility in the future. However, these technologies require robust safety measures to avoid collisions with manned aircraft, especially at smaller airfields with limited monitoring. The low visibility of UAS and the limited cooperation between UAS and manned aircraft increase the risk of collisions.

Currently, a research infrastructure for autonomous air mobility is being developed at the Kamenz regional airport. This includes a mobile 5G campus network, a competence center for autonomous flying, and a research aircraft (Cessna 172) that will serve as a test platform. The goal is to develop a collision avoidance system for UAS and manned aircraft. The main objectives are:

Detection and Localization of UAS: Developing a system for real-time tracking of the position, altitude, and flight intent of all surrounding aircraft.
Collision Avoidance: Identifying risky configurations and implementing a procedure to avoid collisions.
Transport and Launch of UAS by Manned Aircraft: Developing a system for the launch and transport of UAS by manned aircraft and creating a user interface to assist pilots.

The project is led by the Chair of Air Transportation Technology and Logistics (IFL) and is scientifically implemented in collaboration with the Chair of Aircraft Engineering and the Vodafone Chair of Mobile Communication Systems. It builds on existing research and enhances the international visibility of UAS research in the region.