Representatives from Aero EDIH – Jan-Olof Ehk, Rasmus Lundqvist, and Martin Holmberg – explored how Italy is leading the way in U-space deployment, with d-Flight having become the first entity in Europe to be certified as both CISP and USSP in December 2024.
Thanks to insightful presentations by Alberto Iovino and Edoardo Fornaciari, we gained a deeper understanding of the operational framework behind UTM, USSP interoperability, and discussed cost-sharing models for services.
ENAV’s d-UTM platform integrates registration, geofencing, and real-time tracking via native or add-on solutions (e.g., DJI/Mavlink-connected apps), and features like configurable separation and 4D flight authorizations point to a robust and scalable system.
It was also valuable to learn about ongoing innovation through projects like U-Elcome, ENSURE,CERTIFLIGHT, and JEY-CUAS, and how d-Flight is balancing civil and potential military needs within a Class G airspace model governed by ENAC.
This visit comes shortly after a landmark moment in European drone logistics. In December 2024, Amazon Prime Air completed its first drone delivery test in San Salvo, Abruzzo—the site of Italy’s first designated U-space airspace (R100/San Salvo), activated in November 2024. The test was authorized by ENAC and operated through d-Flight’s U-space services, demonstrating real-world integration of advanced air mobility solutions. With ENAV and d-Flight as industrial partners, Italy has positioned itself at the forefront of drone-based logistics in Europe—second only to the U.S. in offering end-user aerial deliveries.
Many thanks to Alberto Iovino, Edoardo Fornaciari, Luigi Brucculeri, Marco Rocchini, and Marco Formato for the valuable insights and warm welcome!
Exciting times ahead for European drone integration!
