Title: Comparative analysis of classification regulations for uncrewed aerial vehicles and proposal for framework

Authors: Ahmet Emin Yildiz

Addresses: Department of Aviation Electrics and Electronics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey

Abstract: This study presents a comparative analysis of the classification factors in regulations developed by civil aviation authorities for uncrewed aerial vehicles. A new analysis method, consisting of two steps and sub-parameters, has been developed for this research. The first step involves the comparative determination of the usage statistics of classification factors in classification approaches, with the aim of achieving a global perspective. The second step involves analysing four parameters: applicability, conventional aircraft systems, technical performance, and sustainability. The study concluded that the current classification regulations for UAVs are inadequate in terms of technical-performance based sub-classification factors. Therefore, the paper proposed a framework of classification factors for civil applications. This study is the first to provide a detailed analysis of the sub-classification factors in the regulations. The paper is expected to contribute to sustainable aviation from the perspective of the interaction between aviation regulations and sustainable aviation.

Keywords: uncrewed aerial vehicle; UAV; comparative analysis; classification; categorisation; application; regulation; classification factors; classification framework; sustainable aviation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSA.2024.142569

International Journal of Sustainable Aviation, 2024 Vol.10 No.4, pp.350 - 384

Received: 19 Mar 2024
Accepted: 15 Jul 2024
Published online: 08 Nov 2024 *

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