Building safe and sustainable UTM systems: enabling drone integration for local communities

How can drones operate safely within cities and local airspace? Thales’ trusted UTM systems provide secure, seamless drone integration. 

Effective drone integration requires specialised airspace management, real-time coordination, and local adaptation.

Transforming communities with safe and sustainable drone operations

The expanding role of drones in modern society 

Drones are revolutionising how people grow food, deliver goods, and transport passengers. They provide surveillance, emergency response, and environmental monitoring, creating vast economic and social opportunities for communities. However, these opportunities can only be realised if drone operations are safe and well-coordinated. Unregulated drone activity can lead to airspace congestion, security risks, and operational inefficiencies, making structured airspace management essential for successful drone integration. 

From flight authorisations to fleet management, risk assessment, and real-time coordination, drones require an advanced, low-altitude airspace infrastructure to operate efficiently within urban and rural environments. Without such a system, the benefits of drone technology could be overshadowed by the risks associated with an unregulated airspace. 

A global leader in airspace management 

With air traffic control (ATC) systems managing 40% of the world’s airspace, Thales is the leading provider of global air traffic management solutions. Two out of three commercial aircraft rely on Thales technologies to safely take off, navigate, and land. 

Thales applies this deep aviation expertise to the safe and structured integration of drones into controlled and uncontrolled airspace. By leveraging its air traffic management (ATM) capabilities, Thales ensures that drone operations comply with safety regulations while maximising efficiency. 

Every airspace environment is unique. That’s why Thales designs tailored UTM solutions, ensuring that drone operations align with local infrastructure, regulations, and operational needs. Whether for a bustling urban metropolis or a remote agricultural region, Thales provides customised airspace solutions that optimise both safety and efficiency. 

A customer-driven approach to drone enablement 

Thales’ approach to drone integration is built around the needs of local communities, governments, and businesses. Unlike one-size-fits-all models, Thales works collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure that drone operations benefit local industries and public services. 

By integrating with existing airspace infrastructure, Thales minimises disruptions to traditional aviation operations while enhancing safety and efficiency. This means that drones can operate in harmony with manned aircraft, reducing risks while maximising airspace utilisation. 

Thales creates shared-use drone systems that serve businesses, emergency responders, and everyday users. By working closely with local governments, businesses, and regulatory agencies, Thales ensures that drone integration is both sustainable and beneficial to the communities they serve. 

Enabling safe and scalable drone operations 

Successful drone integration requires seamless coordination across multiple airspace management components. Thales’ UTM solutions provide real-time flight authorisation, ensuring drones operate safely in designated air corridors. Advanced communication networks enable secure and reliable fleet coordination, preventing airspace congestion and unauthorised drone activity. 

Risk assessment and airspace monitoring tools enhance security by identifying potential conflicts between drones and manned aircraft. By implementing these systems, Thales provides a structured UTM framework that allows drones to operate efficiently within shared airspace, supporting industries such as logistics, agriculture, and security. 

Thales envisions a future where drone systems enhance economic growth, improve public services, and prioritise safety. Through a combination of technology, expertise, and regulatory collaboration, Thales is setting the foundation for a drone-enabled world that benefits both businesses and society. 

A future-ready approach to airspace management 

As drone technology evolves, UTM systems must remain adaptable. Thales continues to advance its airspace management solutions, ensuring that future drone operations support emerging use cases such as urban air mobility (UAM) and emergency response services. 

Thales aligns its solutions with global air traffic management standards, maintaining interoperability with traditional aviation to ensure seamless integration. Leveraging AI and automation, Thales optimises drone traffic flow and operational efficiency, preparing for a future where drones play an even greater role in daily life. 

By continuously innovating its UTM solutions, Thales is shaping the future of connected, intelligent, and safe drone operations worldwide. Through investment in cutting-edge technologies and collaboration with industry leaders, Thales ensures that drone operations remain efficient, secure, and beneficial for communities across the globe.