U-AGREE D4.2 Final barriers characterisation

This deliverable, D4.2 of the U-AGREE project, provides the final characterisation of strategic and tactical risk mitigation barriers within the U-space framework, based on the U-space ConOps Ed. 4 and on outcomes of both finished and ongoing SESAR projects. The document supports the development and adaptation of simulation tools for validating integrated risk models in WP5, focusing on the capability and operational layers of the U-AGREE solution. The report outlines how U-space services serve as foundational elements for mitigating risks associated with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations. These services are designed to address hazards (e.g. mid-air collisions (MAC)). The document also highlights the layered conflict management approach inspired by ICAO’s Global ATM Operational Concept (GATMOC), distinguishing between strategic and tactical mitigation measures. Strategic barriers defined in this document focus on pre-flight planning, organising the airspace to prevent conflicts before they arise by means of the strategic conflict detection and resolution functions defined in the U-space ConOps Ed. 4. These mechanisms aim to ensure that UAS operations are deconflicted to a given extent at the planning stage, based on declared 4D trajectories and airspace constraints. Tactical barriers, on the other hand, operate during the flight to address emerging risk. These include conformance monitoring function, which detects deviations from the approved U-plan, and tactical prediction and resolutions, which provide UAS operators with guidance to avoid collisions with other aircraft. These barriers rely on digital connectivity and cooperative surveillance to support effective conflict avoidance. The document introduces the model for characterising these barriers, detailing the operational workflows for each. It also presents the performance metrics that will be used to evaluate the barriers defined and the simulation framework for evaluating barrier effectiveness. Overall, this deliverable lays the groundwork for a set of barriers that is a robust risk mitigation framework that enhances the safety and efficiency of UAS operations in shared airspace in mid to long-time high demand scenarios.