Droniq demonstrates drone operations in U-Space
At this year’s XPONENTIAL Europe in Düsseldorf, Droniq demonstrated how drones can be safely integrated into complex airspace. In a specially designated U-Space sector, Droniq conducted a live demonstration of drone operations—visitors were able to track the current air situation in real time via the TraX web app and experience firsthand how unmanned aircraft are coordinated.
Collaboration with Tower Düsseldorf and DFS
A special flight sector along the Rhine was established in advance in close coordination with Düsseldorf Tower and the DFS. This sector was located within a control zone and had lateral boundaries running parallel to the shoreline.
To ensure that all drone operators could comply with the requirements, they had to register with Droniq in advance and log in to the UTM system. An online training course also ensured that all participating companies were informed of the rights and obligations applicable to flight operations. This made it possible to ensure coordinated and safe drone operations.
Droniq as a U-Space Service Provider
During the demonstration, Droniq served as the U-Space Service Provider (USSP). Using the UTM system, the company coordinated unmanned air traffic in the sector. At times, up to three companies had drones in the air simultaneously, and visitors were able to follow the current air situation live via the TraX web app.
In addition, sensors were used to provide as complete a picture of the situation as possible and to detect even non-cooperative air traffic participants. This allowed participants to see firsthand how safe and efficient drone traffic operates within a controlled airspace.
Professional Exchange and Future Prospects
In addition to the practical demonstration, Droniq was also featured in the conference program. Ralph Schepp joined Vladimír Foltín from EASA—the European Union Aviation Safety Agency—to discuss key issues related to the safe and scalable integration of drones into airspace.
Jan-Eric Putze draws a positive conclusion: “Together with the DFS, we have demonstrated how manned and unmanned air traffic can operate in a coordinated manner within a control zone. At the same time, we have once again proven that we, as the USSP, are ready when U-Space arrives.”
