What is Unmanned Air Traffic System Management?

By Eric Morris | Published: April 20, 2022

Air Traffic Control for Drones 

The introduction of drones into our airspace has thrown a wrench into the modus operandi of air traffic dispatch and control. Drones have made this profession more complex because the skies are more congested than ever before. If you are interested in this career, air traffic dispatcher salary, own a drone and want to know the regulations, or are just generally curious, Sheffield School of Aeronautics is here to answer your questions or concerns. Continue reading below to learn more. 

Can Air Traffic Control See Drones? 

Normal air traffic control radars and surface movement radars cannot detect drones or other objects the size of drones. Also, typical equipment cannot detect something below 400 feet in the air. Since most drones operate at this height, it is not possible to spot them. The fact that drones are not able to be seen by air traffic controllers makes them dangerous to fly around airports. Airports located in Class A, B, C, D, and E2 airports require special certifications to operate an aircraft like a drone. 

What Is UTM Policy and Unmanned Air Traffic System Management? 

UTM stands for ‘unmanned traffic management and is where the future of air traffic control for drones is heading. That is a relatively new area of aeronautics that an air traffic dispatcher should be aware of. Specifically, this refers to the technological and regulatory efforts to manage drones being flown around lower airspace. As the technological capabilities of drones increase, this area will become more intricate, so it is important for people that are enrolled in air traffic control trade schools or air traffic dispatcher schools to become well-acquainted with it. 

Air traffic control for drones is bound to become more relevant as time goes on, so being well-informed is bound to help you in your career. 

More About Sheffield School of Aeronautics 

Sheffield School of Aeronautics can help people with a curiosity for air traffic control for drones or those interested in a career to get started with their career. We offer courses with a varied timetable. That includes 5-week courses, 3-week courses, 2-week courses, and much more. Feel free to look at our course calendar and testimonials to discover why you should consider attending our school. Contact us today to learn more. 

Related Readings 

The Recent History of U.S. Airline Mergers

How Many Military Aircraft Does the U.S. Have?

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