| abstract |
An aircraft, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone, includes (i) an authentication module, such as a 3G SIM card, and (ii) a communications module, such as a 3G module. The authentication module (a) stores an identity uniquely associated with or identifying a specific pilot or operator ("pilot ID") and (b) sends that pilot ID 12, such as a registered, activated RPAS key, to the communications module. The communications module sends that pilot ID, or related data, to a secure integrated airspace management (SIAM) system that determines whether the pilot or operator is permitted to fly that aircraft and, if it is permitted, then the communications module receives from the SIAM an authorisation signal that permits the aircraft to operate. Preferably the system also logs the movement of the aircraft in real time, and may control the drone to force it to land, should it stray into a no-fly zone. |