Aeronautics Individual Capstone Project

ASCI 490 Aeronautical Science Capstone Course

Individual Project

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

ASCI 490 Aeronautical Science Capstone Course

Abstract

This research project will discuss the rapidly evolving industry of unmanned aerial vehicles with the focus being the integration of unmanned aerial vehicle operations into civil airspace. Emphasis will be placed on the history, future integrations, technological advances, risk mitigation strategies, policies and regulations instituted by the Federal Aviation Administration, ICAO, and Department of Transportation. Safety considerations for operation of various classes of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the National Airspace System will be discussed. There are many challenges to be taken into consideration, which inevitably, will create the challenge of formulating new regulations to accommodate UAVs as a secure part of the aviation industry’s future. Diagrams, statistical data, charts and other digital and written formats will be incorporated to give a comprehensive evaluation of the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles into civilian airspace.

Proposal

This project will take the form of an individual project.

Project Title

How are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Going to Integrate Into American Airspace?

Statement of the Project

The student’s research will involve the close examination of the various types and sizes of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAVs) that are in use today; some with the wingspan of a Boeing 737 and some as small as a remote-controlled model plane. Their current uses and projected uses will be explained and how their integration into civil airspace will encounter positive feedback and negative as well.

By applying all of the knowledge and expertise that the student has received from personal experience and through supplemental research, the paper will describe where the future of UAVs will end up. The research will begin with a detailed examination of the specifications of...