Avinor selects Thales to deploy Norway’s next-generation UTM system
Meeting European regulatory standards
Thales and Avinor have partnered strategically to implement Norway’s next-generation aerial Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system. The system, designed to enhance airspace management while ensuring full compliance with European regulatory standards, marks a significant leap forward in the management of both human-crewed and uncrewed aircraft across the country.
Thales’ Topsky – UAS, powered by AstraUTM, will deliver an advanced, scalable, and automated platform for real-time traffic management, compliance monitoring, and the safe integration of uncrewed aircraft.
The deployment of this system is a key step in supporting Norway’s ambitious vision for air mobility, which includes expanding unmanned aviation and paving the way for future Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions alongside traditional aviation operations.
The collaboration with Avinor, Norway’s air navigation service provider and airport operator, will facilitate the roll-out of the nation’s nationwide UTM system. This system will help streamline airspace management, combining cutting-edge technology with regulatory compliance. Moreover, it represents a pivotal moment for Thales, following the integration of AstraUTM, a leader in UTM software development, into its portfolio.
Thales’ new UTM solution, Topsky – UAS powered by AstraUTM, offers a flexible, scalable platform that will support the safe integration of uncrewed aircraft. It is designed to manage air traffic in and around airports and metropolitan, suburban, and regional areas.
Key features of the system include compliance monitoring, authorisation management, real-time decision-making, continuous airspace surveillance, automated conflict resolution, and rapid response to dynamic airspace conditions.
This collaboration will be a game-changer for Norway’s unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operations. It will enable safe, scalable drone activities and ensure that UAS operations are seamlessly integrated into the existing airspace while adhering to strict regulatory guidelines. The system’s capacity to manage UAS operations at scale will also contribute to the growth of future AAM solutions, which are expected to complement traditional air traffic operations.
EU regulations
Avinor’s UTM system will adhere to European Union regulations, specifically Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/664 and the Acceptable Means of Compliance and Guidance Material for U-space management. This ensures that the system meets the highest safety and operational transparency standards.
The UTM system will also integrate essential services such as the Common Information Service (CIS) and U-space Service Provider (USSP), providing safe and efficient access to designated U-space airspaces while complying with all regulatory requirements.
The new UTM system is set to serve many stakeholders, including drone operators, air traffic service providers, government agencies, and other key players involved in low-altitude airspace management.
By providing advanced real-time data sharing, streamlined airspace access, and enhanced situational awareness, the system will enable operations across Norway’s complex and dynamic airspace, supporting civilian and governmental UAS operations.
Christian Rivierre, Vice President of Airspace Mobility Solutions at Thales, said: “We are honoured to collaborate with Avinor to bring this nationwide UTM system to life in Norway, prioritising safety, innovation, and regulatory alignment. Our UTM solutions, recently enhanced with AstraUTM, reflect Thales’ commitment to advancing airspace management and setting the foundation for integrated air mobility.”
Mats Bye Gjertsen, Vice President of Avinor’s Drone Programme, added: “This system will support Avinor’s role in the safe integration of drones and airspace management, ensuring that we can manage airspace responsibly. We are excited to partner with Thales to deliver a solution that benefits all airspace users and supports air traffic services in managing drone operations.”
Hero image: The new UTM system is set to serve many stakeholders. Credit: Ryan Beirne
