Framework Design of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Integration in the National Airspace System (NAS)∗

This paper presents a framework of unmanned aerial system (UAS) integration in the national airspace system (NAS). Its accurate definition of UAS is proposed first as well as how it is constituted. The whole scheme of UAS integrated in the NAS is described based on the formation of UAS. All the aircrafts flying in the sky are classified into two categories in the proposed framework. Two of the most important functions for each unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are introduced respectively, sense and avoid (SAA), and command, control and communication (C3) data link. Explicit structures and requirements are designed and illustrated. In our proposed method, ADS-B on satellite and on airships are presented for the first time by now. Based on the two ways UAS could operate all over the world, as well as accurate and safe flying. Data links between satellites exist in the whole system. Another any UAV at the terminal and en route could enjoy the air traffic services from air traffic controllers (ATC). And there are voice communications between ATC and UAV pilots in other places that called ground control station (GCS), which assures the information exchange in real time. According to the framework, UAS could be integrated in the NAS successfully, as well as assure all the operating aircrafts and anything on the ground safe.